Janata Dal (United), commonly abbreviated as JD(U), is a significant social-democratic and secular political party based primarily in eastern and north-eastern India. The party has earned a reputation for its advocacy of social justice and the upliftment of marginalised communities. While JD(U) has its roots deeply planted in Bihar, where it currently leads the government, it also has a notable presence in other states such as Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, where it holds various positions in government coalitions.
Founded on October 30, 2003, JD(U) came into existence after a merger between the faction led by Sharad Yadav (a former leader of the Janata Dal), the Samata Party, and the Lok Shakti Party. This unification marked the beginning of JD(U) under the leadership of George Fernandes, who is seen as the party’s mentor and a staunch socialist.
The party’s primary focus has been on promoting social justice, elevating the underprivileged sections of society, and advocating secularism. Its political ideology also centers on supporting a welfare state and developing the weaker sections of society through affirmative policies.
Formation and Early History of JD(U)
JD(U)’s formation dates back to a period before the 1999 General Election, when the Janata Dal split. The party’s origin can be traced back to the division of the Janata Dal (JD) into two factions: the Janata Dal (Secular) under H.D. Deve Gowda and the Janata Dal (United) under Sharad Yadav. This division occurred due to differing political ideologies, particularly regarding their stance on national parties.
In the early years, JD(U) sought to position itself as a robust political alternative in Bihar. The party’s opposition to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in Bihar played a key role in its early consolidation. The party’s initial years were focused on challenging the dominance of RJD, which was led by Lalu Prasad Yadav. JD(U) aimed to provide an alternative voice in the state and was able to gradually establish a strong foothold.
In 2003, the Samata Party, led by George Fernandes and Nitish Kumar, merged with the Janata Dal (United), creating a significant political force in the region. With this merger, JD(U) secured the party symbol of the Janata Dal (United) and adopted the green-and-white flag, signifying unity and the vision of social justice. It was during this phase that JD(U) started gaining significant attention in Bihar and other states.
Janata Dal (United) Relationship with NDA
JD(U) first aligned with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to establish a formidable political presence in Bihar. The JD(U)-BJP alliance was pivotal in Bihar’s political shift in the early 2000s, especially during the tenure of Nitish Kumar as Chief Minister. However, over time, JD(U) had moments of divergence with the NDA, as well as reconciliations.
JD(U) and NDA: The Early Years (2005 – 2013)
The JD(U)-BJP alliance helped oust the dominant Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) from power in Bihar in 2005. Nitish Kumar was appointed as the Chief Minister of Bihar under this alliance, and the coalition grew stronger in the state. Together, JD(U) and BJP formed the dominant political force in Bihar during these years, especially as they combined efforts to bring about substantial infrastructural and economic improvements in the state.
During the 2009 Lok Sabha elections, JD(U) emerged as a key partner in the NDA, strengthening the alliance’s influence in the region.
JD(U)’s Exit from NDA (2013)
In 2013, JD(U) broke away from the NDA after differences emerged over the BJP’s decision to project Narendra Modi as its Prime Ministerial candidate. JD(U) was firmly against Modi’s candidature, citing concerns over his role in the 2002 Gujarat riots and his governance style.
Nitish Kumar’s move was seen as a bold attempt to safeguard JD(U)’s secular image and maintain its position as a party representing the socially marginalised sections. The separation marked a shift in Bihar’s political landscape, with JD(U) aligning itself with the Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan), which included the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress.
The Mahagathbandhan and JD(U)’s Political Revival
Following its poor performance in the 2014 elections, JD(U) underwent a significant shift. The party, led by Nitish Kumar, entered into a coalition with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress in 2015, forming the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). This coalition aimed to challenge the BJP’s dominance in Bihar and provide an alternative to the BJP-led NDA.
In the 2015 Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, JD(U) made a dramatic comeback. The alliance won 178 seats in total, with JD(U) securing 71 out of the 101 seats it contested. Nitish Kumar was re-elected as Chief Minister of Bihar, and the coalition succeeded in delivering good governance for the people of Bihar.
Rejoining the NDA (2017)
After a series of political shifts and controversies within the Mahagathbandhan, Nitish Kumar surprised many by rejoining the NDA in 2017. This was after a brief tenure as Chief Minister in the Grand Alliance, where Nitish Kumar was in coalition with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress. His exit from the alliance was marked by his desire to focus on governance and avoid being part of what he deemed an “unnecessary” alliance.
The rejoining of the NDA, particularly in Bihar, was viewed as a political masterstroke, strengthening the BJP-led coalition and allowing JD(U) to continue its role in state governance.
JD(U)’s Shift Back to NDA and Recent Developments
In 2022, JD(U) left the NDA once again, citing ideological differences with the BJP. Nitish Kumar announced the formation of a new Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance 2.0), which included his old ally RJD, Congress, and other regional parties. This marked the return of JD(U) to its original alliance with the RJD and other secular parties, which continues to dominate Bihar politics.
JD(U)’s Dynamic Relationship with NDA
JD(U)’s relationship with NDA has been a series of high and low points, characterised by alliance shifts, ideological differences, and political recalibrations. From initially joining hands with BJP to breakaway and rejoin the alliance multiple times, JD(U)’s journey exemplifies its adaptive political strategy, where it seeks to align itself with parties that align with its vision of good governance, social justice, and secularism.
JD(U) in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections
In the 2024 Indian general elections, JD(U) contested as part of the Grand Alliance, securing 12 seats out of 16 in Bihar. The party’s performance in the 2024 elections helped it maintain its relevance in the national political discourse, especially as it secured a foothold among the Extremely Backward Castes, a key demographic in Bihar. JD(U)’s success in these constituencies highlighted its enduring appeal to marginalized groups, solidifying its position as a party that stands for social justice.
Nitish Kumar, despite his advancing age and the lack of a visible next generation of leaders, has continued to play a crucial role in shaping the party’s fortunes. His leadership has been central to JD(U)’s ability to maintain its support base across Bihar, an
Electoral Performance: Janata Dal (United) Through the Years
Lok Sabha Elections: Electoral Performance
| Lok Sabha | Election Year | Seats Contested | Seats Won | Votes Polled | % of Votes | State (Seats) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14th Lok Sabha | 2004 | 73 | 8 | 91,44,963 | 2.53% | Bihar (6), Lakshadweep (1), Uttar Pradesh (1) |
| 15th Lok Sabha | 2009 | 27 | 20 | 59,36,786 | 1.50% | Bihar (20) |
| 16th Lok Sabha | 2014 | 93 | 2 | 59,92,281 | 1.08% | Bihar (2) |
| 17th Lok Sabha | 2019 | 24 | 16 | 89,26,679 | 1.45% | Bihar (16) |
| 18th Lok Sabha | 2024 | 16 | 12 | 80,25,000 | 1.25% | Bihar (12) |
Assembly Elections: Electoral Performance
| Vidhan Sabha | Assembly Election Year | Seats Contested | Seats Won | % of Votes | % of Votes in Seats Contested | Party Votes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bihar Legislative Assembly | ||||||
| 12th Vidhan Sabha | 2005 February | 138 | 55 | 14.55% | 26.41% | 3,564,930 |
| 13th Vidhan Sabha | 2005 October | 139 | 88 | 20.46% | 37.41% | 4,819,759 |
| 14th Vidhan Sabha | 2010 | 144 | 115 | 22.58% | 38.77% | 6,561,906 |
| 15th Vidhan Sabha | 2015 | 101 | 71 | 16.80% | 40.65% | 6,416,414 |
| 16th Vidhan Sabha | 2020 | 115 | 43 | 15.39% | 32.83% | 6,485,179 |
| Jharkhand Legislative Assembly | ||||||
| 2nd Vidhan Sabha | 2005 | 18 | 6 | 4.0% | ||
| 3rd Vidhan Sabha | 2009 | 14 | 2 | 2.78% | 285,565 | |
| 4th Vidhan Sabha | 2014 | 11 | 0 | 0.96% | 133,815 | |
| 5th Vidhan Sabha | 2019 | 45 | 0 | 0.73% | 110,120 | |
| 6th Vidhan Sabha | 2024 | 2 | 1 | 0.81% | 36.69% | 145,040 |
| Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly | ||||||
| 7th Vidhan Sabha | 2019 | 14 | 7 | 9.89% | 61,324 | |
| Manipur Legislative Assembly | ||||||
| 13th Vidhan Sabha | 2022 | 38 | 6 | 10.77% | 200,100 |
Prominent Members of Janata Dal (United)
JD(U) has been home to several prominent leaders over the years. Some of the most influential members include:
- Nitish Kumar: The National President of JD(U) and Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar is considered the backbone of the party. His leadership has been central to the party’s success.
- Rajiv Ranjan Singh: A key member of Parliament and former JD(U) President in Bihar.
- Umesh Kushwaha: The Bihar state President of JD(U), who has played a key role in the party’s regional leadership.
- Ram Nath Thakur: A Union Minister from JD(U) in the Third Modi Government.
Conclusion
Janata Dal (United) has seen fluctuating fortunes over the years, yet it continues to play a crucial role in shaping Bihar’s political future. Despite occasional splits and shifts in alliances, JD(U) has emerged as a key player in both regional and national politics. The party’s commitment to social justice, secularism, and its pragmatic alliances have ensured that it remains relevant in the ever-changing political landscape of India. As Bihar continues to evolve, JD(U)’s role in shaping its future cannot be overlooked, especially under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, who remains one of the state’s most influential politicians.
