RCP Singh's Return to JD(U) on Cards as Nitish Kumar Weighs Options

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Former Union Minister RCP Singh is on the cusp of returning to Bihar's ruling Janata Dal (United) or JD(U), according to sources close to the matter. JD(U) leaders revealed that Singh, who joined Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj last year, has expressed a desire to rejoin the party he co-founded with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over two decades ago. Kumar and Singh's relationship dates back to 1998 when Kumar was the railway minister, and Singh served as his principal secretary from 2005 to 2010. Singh's organizational expertise and connections within the party have sparked speculation about his return, particularly with questions surrounding Kumar's leadership succession. Although Singh attended a Kurmi community function in Patna alongside Kumar, the two did not meet, fueling speculation about his potential return. JD(U) leaders hinted that Kumar will make the final decision, weighing the party's organizational needs and political optics. "There's a sense within the party that someone with RCP Singh's experience is needed, especially with succession concerns," said a JD(U) leader. Singh's departure from the party in 2022 was due to alleged attempts to split JD(U) and perceived proximity to the BJP, which led to his expulsion. He was not renominated to the Rajya Sabha, forcing him to step down as Union minister. Following his failed bid to make a significant impact in Jan Suraaj ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Singh is said to believe his future lies in JD(U). Insiders claim he has spoken to senior leaders, and the matter now rests with Kumar. Political analyst Dhirendra Kumar noted that JD(U) is debating the need for experienced hands to stabilize the organization, particularly with Kumar's health and long-term leadership in question.