Explain Bihar floor test in 500 words
The Bihar floor test refers to a crucial political event that took place in the Indian state of Bihar in July It involved a test of strength for the ruling party, where the Chief Minister had to prove his majority in the state assembly.
To understand the significance of the Bihar floor test, it is essential to provide some background information. The state of Bihar, located in the eastern part of India, has a history of political instability. It has witnessed frequent changes in government, and coalition politics has been the norm.
In the 2015 Bihar assembly elections, an alliance consisting of the Janata Dal (United) or JD(U), the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and the Indian National Congress (INC) emerged victorious. Nitish Kumar, the leader of the JD(U), became the Chief Minister, with the support of the RJD and the INC. This alliance was seen as a formidable force against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had suffered a defeat in the state elections.
However, in July 2017, the political scenario in Bihar underwent a dramatic change. Nitish Kumar, who had been serving as the Chief Minister, resigned from his post and ended the alliance with the RJD. He cited corruption charges against the then Deputy Chief Minister, Tejashwi Yadav, who belonged to the RJD, as the reason for his decision.
This move by Nitish Kumar created a political crisis in Bihar. The RJD, led by Lalu Prasad Yadav, accused Nitish Kumar of betraying the mandate of the people and indulging in opportunistic politics. On the other hand, the BJP, sensing an opportunity, extended its support to Nitish Kumar and offered to form a new government in the state.
To validate his claim to form a new government, Nitish Kumar had to prove his majority on the floor of the Bihar Legislative Assembly. This meant that he had to secure the support of at least 122 legislators in the 243-member assembly.
The stage was set for the Bihar floor test on July 28, The assembly session witnessed intense drama and heated exchanges between the ruling party and the opposition. The RJD, with its reduced numbers, vehemently opposed Nitish Kumar's bid to form a new government. They accused him of opportunism and questioned the legitimacy of his claim.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Nitish Kumar comfortably won the floor test. He secured the support of 131 legislators, which included the BJP, JD(U), and some independents. The RJD, along with the Congress and other opposition parties, could only muster 108 votes.
The outcome of the Bihar floor test had far-reaching implications. It solidified Nitish Kumar's position as the Chief Minister and signaled a shift in the political landscape of Bihar. The BJP, which had been out of power in the state for over a decade, now had a significant role to play in the governance of Bihar.
The Bihar floor test also highlighted the fragility of political alliances and the importance of maintaining a majority in the state assembly. It showcased how political equations can change rapidly, and politicians often prioritize their individual interests over the mandate of the people.
In conclusion, the Bihar floor test in 2017 was a crucial event that determined the fate of the ruling party in the state. It showcased the political maneuvering and power dynamics at play in Bihar and highlighted the need for stability and accountability in the state's governance.