Sun Sep 21 16:29:37 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Sanjay Kumar Jha, President of the Janata Dal (United) party, confidently stated that Nitish Kumar will remain Chief Minister of Bihar after the upcoming Assembly elections, leading the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He dismissed concerns about Kumar’s health or the party’s declining seat count, claiming “pro-incumbency” and a strong electoral position. He criticized the opposition’s lack of unity and dismissed the impact of Prashant Kishor’s party. Jha also addressed the caste survey data on poverty in Bihar, highlighting the government’s focus on infrastructure and economic growth. He expressed confidence that seat-sharing arrangements with the BJP would be finalized amicably.
**News Article:**
**Nitish Kumar to Remain Bihar CM After Election: JDU President**
**NEW DELHI, September 21, 2025** – Nitish Kumar is set to continue as Chief Minister of Bihar following the upcoming Assembly elections, according to Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] President Sanjay Kumar Jha. Jha made the assertion during “The Hindu MIND Series” in New Delhi on September 20, 2025, a conversation series featuring leading newsmakers.
“It’s a settled issue – Nitish Kumar is the face of the alliance and will be Chief Minister,” Jha declared, dismissing speculation about Kumar’s future. His comments come amid questions about the JD(U)’s performance in recent elections, where the party has seen a decline in its seat count. Despite this, Jha maintained that there is “pro-incumbency” in favor of Kumar and the JD(U).
He also addressed concerns about the state’s economic condition following the release of caste survey data indicating significant poverty. Jha highlighted the government’s focus on improving infrastructure and fostering economic growth to reverse migration and attract investment.
Jha was critical of the opposition, particularly the Congress party. He argued that they lacked unity and a clear nominee for Chief Minister. He dismissed the potential impact of political strategist Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj party, predicting a bipolar election between the NDA and the Mahagatbandhan.
Addressing potential hurdles in forming a coalition, Jha was optimistic that seat-sharing arrangements with the BJP would be finalized smoothly before October. He also dismissed claims the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar will cause problems for the election.
The Bihar Assembly elections are expected to be closely contested, with both the NDA and the Mahagatbandhan vying for control of the 243 seats.