Ever since he became the Chief Minister in 2005, Mr. Nitish Kumar has launched development projects worth crores for the Terai. But regular flip-flops to remain in power and prohibition have annoyed the Tharu voters, across all age groups, this election season.

Nitish Kumar, the longstanding Chief Minister of Bihar, has long been a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape. Since his initial tenure began in 2005, Kumar has championed numerous development projects aimed at uplifting various communities, including the Tharu tribe in the Terai region. However, his frequent political flip-flops and the contentious prohibition policy have increasingly frustrated the Tharu community.

Development Projects for the Terai

Nitish Kumar’s tenure has seen a significant focus on the development of Bihar’s underprivileged regions. The Tharu tribe, indigenous to the Terai region, has been a beneficiary of these initiatives. Projects worth crores have been launched, aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare. These efforts were initially welcomed, bringing much-needed resources and development to the area.

Political Flip-Flops

Despite the development efforts, Kumar’s political strategies have left the Tharu community feeling disillusioned. Over the years, he has shifted alliances between major political parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), in efforts to maintain his position of power. These political maneuvers, perceived as self-serving, have eroded trust among the Tharu voters. The community’s patience is wearing thin, especially as promises made during election campaigns often remain unfulfilled once the votes are secured.

Prohibition Policy

One of the most controversial policies under Nitish Kumar’s administration has been the statewide prohibition of alcohol, implemented in 2016. While the policy was aimed at reducing alcohol-related issues, it has had mixed results. For the Tharu community, which traditionally engages in the production and consumption of local brews, the prohibition has been particularly disruptive. The ban has not only affected their cultural practices but also their economic activities, leading to widespread resentment.

Election Season Frustrations

As the election season approaches, the Tharu tribe’s dissatisfaction is becoming increasingly apparent. Across all age groups, there is a sense of frustration with Nitish Kumar’s inability to deliver consistent and lasting improvements. The community feels neglected and betrayed by the frequent policy shifts and the impact of prohibition on their livelihoods.

In conclusion, while Nitish Kumar’s tenure as Chief Minister has brought significant development to the Terai region, his political instability and controversial policies have alienated the Tharu tribe. As elections loom, it remains to be seen whether Kumar can address these grievances and regain the trust of this important voter base. The Tharu community’s discontent serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in balancing development with cultural and economic realities.