Patna, Jun 16 (Agencies) : The JD(U) on Sunday formally announced the split of its 17-year-old ties with the BJP in Bihar and walked out of the NDA.

Addressing a news conference with Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar in Patna, JD(U) president Sharad Yadav announced his resignation as NDA convener.

Since there was divergence of opinion on basic issues, we decided to part ways, Sharad Yadav said justifying the decision to end the alliance.

We wanted the alliance to continue, but could not compromise on fundamental issues, Nitish Kumar said.

The Bihar chief minister has announced that he will seek a vote of confidence on the floor of assembly on June 19.

Nitish Kumar also announced that he had recommended the removal of 11 BJP ministers from his government to the governor, as they had refused to attend to their duties.

I can't see how BJP ministers can stay within the ministry and can't work, Nitish Kumar said, adding, despite several requests the BJP ministers refused to return to work.

When they did not attend the cabinet meeting on Sunday, we decided to seek a trust vote on the floor, the Bihar chief minister said.