Why Nitish Kumar Continues to Endure in Bihar: Little Sign of Anti Incumbency or Voter Fatigue
Despite two decades in power, Nitish Kumar continues to command trust across communities in Bihar, with even sections of traditional opposition voters acknowledging his governance record and welfare schemes.
MUZAFFARPUR: Predicting Bihar’s election outcome may be uncertain, but one pattern is clear Chief Minister Nitish Kumar continues to defy anti incumbency. Across constituencies, voters show little fatigue even after his two decade long tenure.
In Muzaffarpur’s Kurhani constituency, local resident Sabbu Mirza remarked, “Although I will vote for RJD, you won’t find people speaking against Nitish even after four full terms.” His uncle, Muhammad Amanullah, a JD(U) worker, added, “Nitish is not the leader of one caste. He has a mass base, and that’s his appeal.”
Kumar’s caste, the Kurmis, make up around 3% of Bihar’s population far smaller than the 14% Yadavs or 18% Muslims yet his popularity extends to diverse social groups, including upper castes, Kushwahas, Paswans, Musahars, and Mallahs.
“He is the leader of everyone else, and that’s why I’ll vote for him,” Amanullah said. “Unlike Uttar Pradesh, Muslims in Bihar are much better off there’s no fear of lynching or bulldozers.”
Political observers agree. Veteran journalist Ajeet Dwivedi noted that Nitish’s welfare measures have reversed earlier discontent. “The new schemes turned the tide. From pensions for widows and the elderly to salary hikes for teachers and ₹10,000 aid for women all this has helped him,” he said. “The bar for governance was set so low during the Lalu era that even modest progress feels remarkable.”
Bihar’s political balance also continues to depend on Nitish’s support base. “BJP needs him for his EBC and OBC votes,” said Ashok Kumar Akela, a resident of Mahua constituency. “Among OBCs and SC/STs, each caste has its own leader. Nitish unites the smaller ones, and BJP relies on that.”
For many voters, Nitish’s credibility rests on tangible benefits. “I get an elderly pension and free electricity. He keeps his promise,” said Shankar Sahani, a fisherman from Minapur. Others echoed similar sentiments, crediting him for improved roads and infrastructure.
Ultimately, Nitish Kumar’s enduring appeal lies in a politics of modest gains and reliable delivery. In a state long defined by low expectations, even small but fulfilled promises continue to earn him loyalty making him one of India’s most resilient regional leaders.
