A reluctant politician who was Nitish Kumar’s most trusted friend
Known as the man who discovered Bihar for the BJP, Sushil Kumar Modi served as the Deputy Chief Minister for 11 years under Nitish Kumar and the duo shared an interesting friendship.
Manoj Kumar Pathak
New Delhi: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushil Kumar Modi, a stalwart in Bihar politics, breathed his last on Monday following a prolonged battle with cancer. The 72-year-old’s demise marks the end of an era for Bihar politics, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
Modi, often credited as the key figure who introduced Bihar to the BJP, served as the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar for an impressive 11 years under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. Their partnership was not just political but also marked by a deep and intriguing friendship that endured through the trials of governance and political shifts.
With over three decades of political experience, Sushil Modi held several significant positions within the BJP and the state of Bihar. From being a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) to a Member of Parliament (MP), he traversed various roles, leaving an indelible mark in each.
His journey into politics began during his student days at Patna University, where he demonstrated leadership as the general secretary of the students’ union in 1973. Despite initial reluctance towards a political career, Modi’s prowess and dedication propelled him forward. His association with the Total Revolution movement under JP Narayan’s guidance showcased his commitment to social change.
Notably, it was the persuasion of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee that finally convinced Modi to embrace active politics. Since then, there was no looking back for the BJP veteran, who won hearts and elections alike with his astute leadership and grassroots connect.
However, perhaps the most defining aspect of Sushil Modi’s political journey was his camaraderie with Nitish Kumar. The duo’s relationship transcended mere political alliances, reflecting a deep understanding and mutual respect. Nitish Kumar himself expressed his fondness for Modi, lamenting his departure from the state’s political landscape.
Their partnership weathered numerous storms, including political realignments and shifting allegiances. Even as Nitish Kumar made strategic decisions like joining and leaving alliances, his equation with Sushil Modi remained unwavering, a testament to the strength of their bond.
In an era marked by political volatility, Sushil Modi’s steadfastness and dedication to Bihar’s development stood out. His departure leaves a void in Bihar’s political fabric, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of leaders to come.
As Bihar bids farewell to one of its stalwarts, Sushil Kumar Modi’s contributions to the state and the nation will be remembered with reverence and gratitude.
