NEW DELHI: Barely a month ago, Bihar’s Opposition platform of Mahagathbandhan appeared to have a thin edge over the state’s ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in this year’s Assembly elections. Its projected face in the state, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, appeared vulnerable against anti-incumbency sentiments. Allegations of corruption were being wildly thrown at Cabinet members, and his frequent political switch earned him the sobriquet of “Palturam”.

Also, videos and memes surfaced highlighting Nitish Kumar's advancing years. He had earlier a reputation for good governance and clean image. He was hailed for pulling Bihar out of what was referred to as “jungle raaj”.

Meanwhile, Bihar’s principal Opposition party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) seemed buoyed by the aggressive lead

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