This is for the first time since the party’s formation in 2003 that JD(U) will not put its electoral agenda in public domain for discussion. Though in recent times the election manifesto has lost much of its relevance, as nobody takes it seriously, the fact remains that it defines the political character of the party. The main reason being cited for not releasing the manifesto is it has completely a new dimension and divergent political line than the manifesto of BJP. JD(U)’s line is different from its ally BJP on Article 370 (special status to J&K), annulling Article 35A (no outsider can own property in J&K), Uniform Civil Code and Ram Temple issue.

If the party sources are to be believed, it is not only the difference of political line, but it has been the pressure from inside that made Nitish to relent. It is said that a majority of the leaders particularly belonging to upper castes have been opposed to the political line of the party on the contentious issues. It is worth recalling that the JD(U) leadership on many occasion has issued press statement opposing the BJP’s line on 370 or 35A. Their political line is known to the BJP leadership.

Had the party been wary of the BJP stand, the party would not given the impression that it was about to release manifesto. Party insiders attribute the delay to alliance compulsions and more that that the differences within the party on contentious issues. Apprehensions were also expressed that a section of the leaders from upper caste at one stage were to switch over to BJP.

In fact a few weeks ago the JD(U) state chief Bashishtha Narain Singh had expressed optimism that the manifesto would be released soon. He had even convened the meeting of the members of the manifesto committee which included secretary general K C Tyagi and national spokesperson Pawan Varma.

Yet another reason for not releasing the manifesto has been Nitish Kumar has been seeking vote in the name of Modi. This is a major departure from the earlier, when it has made clear to Modi and BJP leadership that Nitis would be the face of the NDA in the election. Speeches of Nitish make it abundantly clear that he has preferred to play second fiddle to Modi. He has refrained from assertive of his authority. Nitish is openly seeking votes for a second term for Narendra Modi. People have been voting for JD(U) and NDA candidates on development issues and double-digit GDP growth rate.

Tyagi, who left Patna for Delhi last week after discussion on the “secularism” issue with Nitish and state party chief that in incorporated in the party manifesto, has publically announced that JD(U) will not compromise with its secular credentials and won’t toe the BJP line, be it Article 370,Article 35A, Ram temple, imposition of UCC or even Citizenship Amendment Bill.

This action of Nitish has sent a wrong signal in the political circle. The parties opposed to Nitish say “It seems Nitish-ji has accepted his party as the B-team of BJP and RSS. But Nitish-ji cannot skip the Article 370 and Ram Temple issue by this hollow symbolism of silence”. The JD(U) is perhaps the first (mainstream) political party in the country that has not released its manifesto till the fourth phase.

With his own support base diminishing sharply, Nitish is not in the position to assert his authority. Any kind of self assertion would endanger the political interest of Nitish as well as his JD(U). In this situation it is better to maintain silence notwithstanding being accused of “complete ideological subjugation” to the BJP and the Sangh. (IPA Service)