“Remembering Sushil Kumar Modi: Bihar’s Political Architect and Nitish Kumar’s Trusted Companion”

In Short

• Senior BJP Sushil Kumar Modi dies at 72 after battle with cancer
• Served as Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar for 11 years
• Shared a significant political relationship with Nitish Kumar

Sushil Kumar Modi, a towering figure in Bihar politics, breathed his last on Monday after battling cancer, leaving behind a legacy as the political architect who played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s political landscape.

Revered as the man who spearheaded the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) emergence in Bihar, Modi’s journey was marked by decades of dedicated service to the people of the state.

With a remarkable tenure of 11 years as Deputy Chief Minister under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, Sushil Modi earned the reputation of being a stalwart politician who commanded respect across party lines.

His bond with Nitish Kumar, marked by mutual trust and camaraderie, stood as a testament to his ability to foster enduring partnerships in the tumultuous world of politics.

Sushil Kumar Modi’s political odyssey commenced during his days as a student leader at Patna University, where he displayed early signs of leadership by assuming the role of general secretary of the students’ union in 1973.

Despite initial reluctance, he embarked on a journey that would see him ascend to prominent positions within the BJP and Bihar’s political echelons.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over three decades, Sushil Modi held various esteemed positions, including Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), Member of Parliament (MP) in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

His meteoric rise within the BJP ranks mirrored his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Bihar.

Notably, Sushil Modi’s entry into politics was catalyzed by the encouragement of stalwart leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who recognized his potential and urged him to embrace an active political role.

Overcoming initial apprehensions, Sushil Modi emerged victorious in his political debut, securing the Patna Central seat in 1990 and heralding a new chapter in Bihar’s political landscape.

However, it was his enduring alliance with Nitish Kumar that defined much of his political trajectory.

Their partnership, forged on the principles of mutual respect and shared vision for Bihar’s development, yielded significant dividends for the state.

As Nitish Kumar assumed the mantle of Chief Minister in 2005, Sushil Modi’s transition to Deputy Chief Minister solidified their alliance, symbolizing a formidable force in Bihar’s political arena.

The synergy between Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi was palpable, with their governance marked by efficiency and collaboration.

Despite occasional political upheavals and realignments, their bond remained unshakeable, underscoring the strength of their alliance and the enduring legacy they crafted together.

In the wake of Sushil Modi’s demise, Bihar mourns the loss of a visionary leader whose indelible contributions have left an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape.

His legacy as Bihar’s political architect and Nitish Kumar’s trusted companion will continue to inspire generations to come, embodying the spirit of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service.