Upendra Kushwaha tries to reach out to JD-U

Patna: Buzz of a rift within NDA got louder in political corridors here when Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha during an event in Patna gave hints at joining the RJD- Congress-led Mahagathbandhan in Bihar. During an event in Patna on Saturday, Mr Kushwaha said that that “Milk from Yadavs and rice from Kushwaha will make a good kheer but in order to prepare a delicious kheer we would require dry fruits which can come from backward communities”.

Political analysts are of the opinion that Upendra Kushwaha who recently joined the fray to claim big brother position in Bihar and has been demanding to contest on more seats than Nitish Kumar’s JD (U) in 2019 general elections may align with RJD- Congress-led Grand Secular alliance in Bihar.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, who has been trying to woo Mr Kushwaha, also grabbed the opportunity by responding to his statement. Through his official Twitter account, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, “Upendra Ji you are right delicious kheer is good for people especially those who have been working hard. Dry fruits as you indicated only add nutritious value to kheer if prepared with affection”. Mr Kushwaha has been upset ever since Nitish Kumar returned to NDA fold and formed a government with BJP in Bihar. Koeri community which Mr Kushwaha represents forms about 10 per cent of Bihar population. Observers say that RLSP has significant voter base in around 20- 25 assembly seats in the state. This is also why, despite having only three MPs, Mr Kushwaha was rewarded with a cabinet berth.