Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee reportedly considers Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's speculated departure from the INDIA bloc as 'good riddance.' Amidst Bihar's political turmoil, a source close to Banerjee revealed her sentiments, citing off-the-record discussions. Banerjee allegedly expressed that Nitish Kumar's exit could alleviate the anti-incumbency challenge faced by the alliance. She emphasized the potential benefits for the RJD-Congress coalition in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, INDIA bloc leader KC Tyagi acknowledged internal differences, suggesting the alliance's fragility. The unfolding scenario underscores political realignments ahead of the elections.

JD(U)'s political adviser KC Tyagi accused the Congress of consistently disrespecting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, signaling the imminent collapse of the INDIA bloc. Tyagi highlighted that Kumar's efforts to unite non-Congress parties were undermined by insults from a faction within Congress. The INDIA alliance, Tyagi claimed, failed to hold joint meetings on leadership and agenda, posing a challenge against the influential BJP. Speculations are rife that Kumar might switch to the BJP-led NDA, marking the fourth such move in a decade and the second this term.

Amid Bihar's political turmoil, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is reportedly poised to resign on Saturday, with several Congress MLAs potentially joining him, sources informed India Today TV. Speculation mounts over Kumar's departure from the Mahagathbandhan, possibly rejoining the BJP-led NDA. The RJD aims to bolster support and strategize to counter Kumar's potential return. Tensions within the INDIA alliance escalate, exacerbated by unsuccessful seat-sharing talks and recent announcements of solo campaigns by Trinamool Congress and Aam Aadmi Party. Kumar's anticipated move signals a significant shift in Bihar's political landscape, with ramifications for both state and national politics.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the Bihar political crisis, stating, "We're trying our best to make everyone unite' in the INDIA alliance." Kharge expressed efforts to mend differences amid speculation of Janata Dal (United) departure, saying, "I had no information about Janata Dal (United) leaving the alliance." In discussions with Trinamool Congress and CPI(M) leaders, Kharge emphasized unity for effective electoral competition, stating, "We need to be united only then we can give a good fight in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections." The unfolding scenario signals significant political realignment in Bihar, as sources suggest Nitish Kumar's potential alliance shift with BJP.

Manoj Jarange Patil, leader of the Maratha quota protest, concludes hunger strike after Maharashtra government accedes to demands. Patil sought Kunbi certificates for all Marathas, free education from kindergarten to postgraduate level, and reservation in government jobs. The government, meeting the protesters' demands, agrees to increase Kunbi certificates from 37 to 50 lakh. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde joins the protest site, signaling government's commitment. Victory march planned by Maratha leader in Vashi. Maratha community's reservation demand remains a contentious issue following Supreme Court's ruling against Maratha reservations in colleges and jobs in May 2021.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleges BJP attempted to lure seven AAP MLAs with a Rs 25 crore offer to switch sides, aiming to destabilize Delhi government. Kejriwal asserts talks were held, with BJP allegedly threatening his arrest in a liquor policy case. AAP claims recordings of BJP leaders' conversations exist. Kejriwal denounces BJP's tactics, accusing them of powerlessness to defeat AAP in elections. BJP denies allegations, labeling Kejriwal's statements as lies. Amidst the political turmoil, speculations rise regarding Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's potential shift to BJP-led NDA.            

Speculations abound as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is expected to take oath for a record ninth time, supported by the BJP. Amid reports of a government change, the 'Mahagathbandhan' faces uncertainty. BJP and JD(U) hold strategic meetings, hinting at a potential alliance. Nitish Kumar's absence at a recent event with his deputy sparks rumors of discord within JD(U) and RJD, prompting their legislative parties to convene. Congress, part of the opposition bloc, convenes in Purnea, focusing on preparations for Rahul Gandhi's upcoming tour. The evolving political landscape sets the stage for Bihar's political realignment.

Speculations about Nitish Kumar reconsidering ties with the BJP-led NDA stir uncertainty in Bihar's 'Mahagathbandhan' government. As discussions unfold, the focus shifts to assembly numbers. Presently, the coalition comprises RJD, JD(U), Congress, and Left parties, totaling 159 MLAs. However, if JD(U) exits, leaving with 114 MLAs, the coalition risks collapse. The Bihar assembly, with 243 members, necessitates 122 MLAs for governance. If JD(U) aligns with BJP, reaching 123 MLAs, and HAM's 4 MLAs, the NDA could regain power. Kumar's history of strategic shifts adds complexity to the evolving political landscape.            

Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav skips Governor's high-tea, fueling rumors of CM Nitish Kumar's potential alliance shift with BJP. Union Home Minister Amit Shah attends BJP meeting on Bihar crisis. BJP leaders drop hints on open doors for Nitish, while RJD demands clarification. Amidst separate party meetings, Nitish Kumar sits with JD(U) at the event. JD(U) emphasizes alliance commitment but urges Congress introspection. BJP leaders, including Sushil Kumar Modi, suggest a decision awaits monitoring developments. RJD's Manoj Jha urges Nitish to clarify doubts by evening. Bihar's political landscape remains tense.

Sources reveal that Nitish Kumar is likely to be sworn in as Chief Minister of Bihar on January 28, forming a new alliance with the BJP. Sushil Modi is anticipated to become the deputy CM. Amid the political shift, BJP's Giriraj Singh welcomes the move, stating the central leadership will decide on Nitish's return to the NDA. The development follows tensions in the JD(U)-RJD alliance, exacerbated by Karpoori Thakur's Bharat Ratna conferment and Nitish's 'parivarvaad' remark. Congress monitors the situation, expressing skepticism about Nitish returning to the BJP fold. Decision expected in the next two to three days.