Shivanand abandons RJD, embraces JD(U)

Patna, Nov 18 (UNI) Former Bihar minister Shivanand Tiwari, considered a close aide of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad, joined the JD(U) today in presence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Welcoming Mr Tiwari and another leader Bhola Prasad Singh into the party, Mr Kumar told newspersons here that both had actually returned to JD(U) as they originally belonged to it.

''It is a matter of pleasure for the entire party as Shivanand Tiwari is one of its founder leaders and Mr Singh has also contributed a lot to it,'' Mr Kumar said.

He said whatever may be the grievances following which Mr Tiwari had left them, the party was always hopeful of his coming back.

He hoped that both the leaders would cooperate in the ongoing mission of reconstructing a new Bihar. The party was strengthened with their presence, he added.

UNI RS PL AKP1344