3 Things Looking back at 2025: The five figures who shaped Indian politics
Dec 31, 2025
Neerja Chowdhury, a veteran journalist and contributing editor at The Indian Express, offers fascinating insights into the political landscape of 2025. She discusses Arvind Kejriwal's surprising political hibernation, and how Nitish Kumar’s win in Bihar redefined alliances and benefited the BJP. Chowdhury delves into Narendra Modi's sustained popularity post-2024 setbacks and outlines Shashi Tharoor's independent stance. She also highlights Priyanka Gandhi's emerging role in parliament and the Congress's reliance on the Gandhi legacy. A compelling analysis of Indian politics awaits!
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Kejriwal's Political Hibernation
- Arvind Kejriwal dominated Delhi politics for a decade but became politically dormant after losing control of the capital in 2025.
- His hibernation consolidated BJP power in Delhi and removed a potential national alternative to Congress.
Nitish's Sympathy Win Benefited BJP
- Nitish Kumar's sympathy-driven campaign doubled his party's seats in Bihar and delivered a decisive NDA victory in 2025.
- The BJP emerged as the ultimate beneficiary and may eventually lead the state once succession occurs.
Modi’s Restored Invincibility
- Narendra Modi regained political momentum after setbacks by framing decisive foreign policy moves and leveraging state wins.
- Voter fatigue exists but the lack of a clear opposition keeps Modi and the BJP politically dominant nationally.