KKN Gurugram Desk | A fresh political controversy is heating up in Bihar, this time over the alleged practice of appointing relatives—especially sons-in-law—of ruling party leaders to key positions in various state commissions. The debate has been nicknamed “Jamai Politics” (son-in-law politics), with Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of the Opposition and RJD leader, taking direct aim at the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government.

The accusation? That the restructuring of commissions in Bihar is not a routine administrative affair, but a politically motivated exercise aimed at providing “adjustments” and political rehabilitation for the relatives of influential NDA figures. In a scathing statement, Tejashwi even demanded the formation of a “Jamai Aayog” (Son-in-law Commission) to reflect the growing trend of nepotism in these appointments.

 What Is Commission Restructuring and Why Is It Controversial?

The State Commissions in Bihar are statutory or advisory bodies formed to oversee specific areas such as education, human rights, backward classes, minorities, and women’s welfare. These bodies play a critical role in policymaking, oversight, and grievance redressal.

In recent weeks, the Nitish Kumar government has restructured several of these commissions, appointing new chairpersons and members. While such restructuring is not uncommon, what raised eyebrows was the pattern of appointments—many of them allegedly being family members or close relatives of political leaders in the ruling NDA coalition.

 Tejashwi Yadav’s Accusations: Nepotism and Political Favouritism

Tejashwi Yadav has not held back. In multiple media interactions, he has accused the Bihar government of turning public institutions into platforms for political favours. His reference to “Jamai Politics” is not metaphorical; it directly points to sons-in-law and close kin of senior BJP and JDU leaders being placed in influential posts without transparent selection processes.

“What we are seeing in Bihar today is the complete politicization of commissions. Instead of expertise or experience, family connections are becoming the sole qualification. Perhaps it’s time we set up a separate Jamai Aayog,” Tejashwi remarked sarcastically during a press briefing.

 List of Alleged Political Appointments Under Scrutiny

While no official list of names has been released, opposition leaders claim that several of the newly appointed commission members are sons-in-law, nephews, and extended relatives of sitting ministers or ruling coalition MLAs. Reports suggest:

• A BJP MLA’s son-in-law has been made chairman of a backward class commission.

• A JDU leader’s close family member has been given a top post in the Women’s Commission.

• Another appointee is related to a member of the State Legislative Council.

Though the government maintains that all appointments were made through due process, the lack of transparency and alleged family connections have sparked criticism and media scrutiny.

 Government’s Response: Political Vendetta or Genuine Appointments?

In response, Bihar government spokespersons have dismissed the opposition’s allegations as “baseless and politically motivated.” JDU and BJP leaders argue that appointments were made based on merit, prior experience, and recommendations from respective departments.

A senior BJP minister stated,

“Just because someone is related to a political leader does not mean they are disqualified. Many of them have served the public and have domain expertise. This is not nepotism but recognition of talent.”

The NDA also pointed fingers back at the RJD, accusing them of indulging in the same practices during their previous tenure.

 ‘Adjustment Politics’ in Bihar: A Recurring Trend

Observers and political analysts suggest that the politics of adjustment is not new to Bihar. Across governments—whether led by RJD, JDU, or BJP—there have been patterns of accommodating political allies, loyalists, and family members in commissions, boards, and corporations, especially when cabinet berths are limited.

Since these commissions are less visible to the public eye, they are often used to “adjust” influential individuals who couldn’t be given ministerial positions. These appointments come with perks such as official cars, bungalows, and honorariums, making them attractive alternatives to legislative power.

 Impact on Governance and Institutional Credibility

Critics argue that turning commissions into political rehabilitation centers undermines their autonomy and effectiveness. Many commissions are meant to act as watchdogs or advisory bodies, often needing professional expertise and independence to function correctly.

When these posts are filled with political appointees lacking domain knowledge, it dilutes their ability to influence real change or provide checks and balances.

“These appointments weaken democracy. Institutions lose credibility when political families treat them as inheritance,” said a senior Patna-based political analyst.

 How Will This Affect Bihar Politics Ahead of 2025 Assembly Elections?

With the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections less than a year away, this issue could become a major talking point. Tejashwi Yadav is expected to continue raising the matter in rallies, parliamentary sessions, and digital campaigns, targeting Nitish Kumar’s credibility and the BJP’s stance on clean governance.

The ruling NDA, on the other hand, will likely counter the narrative by showcasing development records and dismissing the “Jamai Politics” label as an electoral stunt.

Political commentators suggest that public perception around this controversy could influence urban voters and educated youth, especially those frustrated with lack of employment and transparency in government hiring.

Public Reaction: Mixed Responses Across Social Media

The term #JamaiPolitics began trending on Twitter (now X) shortly after Tejashwi’s comments, with users divided on the issue.

• Some sarcastically supported the idea of a “Jamai Aayog”, calling it the most “Bihari” solution to nepotism.

• Others criticized both NDA and RJD for treating public institutions as personal property.

Memes, editorial cartoons, and satirical videos on platforms like Instagram and YouTube have added to the viral spread of the controversy.

The ongoing debate around commission appointments in Bihar—now famously dubbed Jamai Politics—is more than a political punchline. It exposes the systemic rot in institutional appointments, where political considerations often outweigh merit.

As opposition leaders like Tejashwi Yadav capitalize on this to mobilize public opinion, and the NDA scrambles to defend its choices, the real question remains: Will Bihar ever break free from dynastic and adjustment-based politics?

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