In the 1990 Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, the Janata Dal emerged victorious, securing 122 out of 324 seats. This victory was pivotal in shaping the state’s political landscape, leading to Lalu Prasad Yadav’s ascent as Chief Minister.
The 1990 Bihar Legislative Assembly Elections
The 1990 elections marked a significant shift in Bihar’s political dynamics. The Janata Dal, a party that had gained momentum nationally, capitalized on the prevailing sentiments against the incumbent Indian National Congress (INC). The INC, which had been a dominant force in Bihar politics, witnessed a substantial decline, securing only 71 seats—a decrease of 125 seats from the previous assembly.
The Janata Dal’s success was attributed to its appeal among various socio-economic groups, especially the backward castes and marginalized communities. Lalu Prasad Yadav, who had been an active participant in student politics and the anti-Emergency movement, emerged as a prominent leader within the party.
The Internal Contest for Chief Ministership
Following the electoral victory, the Janata Dal faced the crucial task of selecting the Chief Minister. The primary contenders were Lalu Prasad Yadav and Ram Sundar Das, a seasoned politician and former Chief Minister. The decision was to be made through an internal vote among the party’s newly elected legislators.
In this internal election, Nitish Kumar, along with Sharad Yadav, played a strategic role in rallying support for Lalu Prasad Yadav. They mobilized backward caste MLAs to back Lalu, emphasizing the importance of representation for marginalized communities. This concerted effort was instrumental in Lalu’s narrow victory over Ram Sundar Das, securing 59 votes to Das’s 56.
Nitish Kumar’s Role
At the time of the 1990 elections, Nitish Kumar was an emerging leader within the Janata Dal, known for his organizational skills and grassroots connect. His support for Lalu Prasad Yadav during the internal voting was pivotal. By aligning with Lalu, Nitish aimed to strengthen the representation of backward castes in Bihar’s political sphere. This alliance underscored a shared vision of empowering marginalized communities and challenging the traditional upper-caste dominance in the state’s politics.
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Tenure as Chief Minister
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Chief Minister began in 1990 and was characterized by a focus on social justice and empowerment of backward classes. His leadership style was unconventional, often resonating with the rural populace. However, his tenure also faced criticism for administrative inefficiencies and allegations of corruption. In 1997, amidst the fodder scam allegations, Lalu resigned but ensured his political influence remained by appointing his wife, Rabri Devi, as his successor.
Conclusion
In summary, while Nitish Kumar did not directly appoint Lalu Prasad Yadav as the Chief Minister of Bihar, his strategic support during the internal party elections in 1990 was instrumental in Lalu’s ascension to the position. This period marked a transformative phase in Bihar’s politics, emphasizing the rise of backward caste leadership and reshaping the state’s socio-political fabric.
