Renowned as the figure who spearheaded Bihar's BJP resurgence, Sushil Kumar Modi, fondly known as Sushil Modi, etched an indelible mark on the political landscape before succumbing to cancer on Monday. His illustrious career spanned over three decades, during which he served as Deputy Chief Minister alongside Nitish Kumar, fostering a dynamic camaraderie between the two.
A stalwart within the BJP ranks, Sushil Modi's journey traversed various political echelons, from his inception as an MLA to his tenure as an MLC, Lok Sabha member, and Rajya Sabha representative. Notably, he held the position of Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar twice, from 2005 to 2013 and from 2017 to 2020, exemplifying his enduring commitment to public service.
The genesis of Sushil Modi's political odyssey traces back to his formative years at Patna University, where he emerged as a prominent figure, assuming the mantle of general secretary of the students' union in 1973. Despite initial reservations, he plunged into the political arena, securing victory as an MLA from the Patna Central constituency in 1990, a pivotal juncture that marked the onset of his illustrious career.
While his trajectory was shaped by pivotal encounters, it was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's persuasive charm that ultimately beckoned Sushil Modi into the realm of active politics. A momentous turning point arose in 1990 when he clinched victory in the traditional Congress stronghold of Patna Central, heralding the dawn of a formidable political legacy.
Central to Sushil Modi's political narrative was his symbiotic relationship with Nitish Kumar, a partnership underscored by mutual respect and shared governance ideals. Their alliance bore fruit in 2005 when Nitish Kumar assumed office as Chief Minister, with Sushil Modi seamlessly transitioning into the role of Deputy Chief Minister, a testament to their cohesive leadership.
Despite the ebb and flow of political fortunes, the bond between Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi remained unwavering. Nitish Kumar's poignant acknowledgment of Sushil Modi's pivotal role resonated deeply, underscoring the enduring camaraderie between the two stalwarts.
In the realm of Bihar's ever-shifting political landscape, Sushil Modi's legacy endures as a testament to his unwavering dedication to public service and his enduring partnership with Nitish Kumar, a dynamic alliance that transcended the vagaries of politics.
