‘Nitish Destroyed His Own Image – From a Progressive CM to a Pathetic Politician’

Shubham Priyadarshan, who grew up in Bihar, says the current Nitish Kumar is a pale shadow of the progressive leader that he saw in his younger years. His views:

Growing up in Bihar, I always heard people say “Nitish sabke hain.” It was printed on posters, painted on walls, and spoken proudly by many around me. As a student, I used to believe in it too. Nitish Kumar wasn’t just a Chief Minister — he was someone who brought real change.

I saw girls in my school riding cycles under the Balika Cycle Yojana. Many of my friends could dream of college because of the Student Credit Card Scheme. Elderly people in my locality still thank the Lakshmi Bai Pension Yojana, and young people got skills and jobs through the Kushal Yuva Yojana.

At that time, it really felt like he WAS working for everyone — every caste, every religion, every village, every municipality and every city.

But today, in 2025, I find myself wondering: what happened to that Nitish Kumar?

Now, when I hear “Nitish sabke hain,” it doesn’t feel like a compliment anymore. It feels like he’s become a part of every party, with no real loyalty to anyone but power. The same man who once said he would “rather die than join BJP” is now sitting comfortably with them. The same leader who accused Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi of ruining Bihar, later joined hands with them too. It’s hard to keep track of how many times he has switched sides.

ALSO READ: Paltu Kumar – The Flip Flop Man of Indian Politics

Is this the same Nitish Kumar who resigned as Railway Minister in 1999 after a train accident, saying he felt morally responsible? That man had principles. This one seems to only care about staying in the Chief Minister’s chair — no matter what it takes.

Lately, it’s not just his politics that’s confusing. His behavior in public events has become strange — placing flower bouquets on someone’s head, making odd remarks during speeches, and saying things that make people uncomfortable. I saw a video where, during the national anthem, he started doing weird gestures. And in one of his rallies, he even said that “women didn’t wear clothes in the past” — to a group of self-help group women. That was honestly shocking.

I’m not a doctor, but as a young citizen, I can’t ignore what is obvious. Something doesn’t seem right. The opposition is raising concerns about his mental health and age, and honestly — they might not be entirely wrong.

I’m not saying Nitish Kumar never did good work. He did. Bihar is better because of some of his early decisions. But maybe it’s time he stepped aside with dignity instead of desperately trying to hold on to power through any alliance that keeps him afloat.

As a student, I want a leader who inspires trust and stability — not confusion and chaos. Bihar deserves clear vision, fresh energy, and someone who believes in principles, not just politics. Nitish ji was once that person — but maybe not anymore.

As told to Deepti Sharma