Patna, Mar 7: Political developments in Bihar indicate that the state may witness a new government led by the BJP next month, with the transition expected after the completion of the Rajya Sabha election process on March 16.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has already filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha and is likely to take oath as a member of the Upper House after April 10. According to ruling alliance sources, the leadership change could take place around April 5 or 6 when the NDA legislature party is expected to meet and elect its new leader.
The anticipated shift may pave the way for the first BJP chief minister in Bihar, while the JD(U) is likely to retain a key role in the coalition government. Sources said the BJP’s CM candidate would be finalised in consultation with Nitish Kumar to maintain coordination within the alliance.
“There will be no major political move before the Rajya Sabha election process concludes on March 16,” a senior leader said, indicating that the transition will only begin afterwards.
Amid the political consultations, Bihar’s deputy chief ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha recently met Nitish Kumar at his residence to discuss the future course of the alliance government. BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh also visited Patna to gauge the mood of party leaders regarding the choice of the next chief minister.
Meanwhile, discussions are also underway within the JD(U) over the possible political role of Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar. Party sources indicated that if he enters active politics, he could be considered for the post of deputy chief minister after Nitish Kumar moves to the Rajya Sabha.
The proposed structure of the new NDA government is expected to follow a 17+15+2+1+1 formula, under which the BJP will hold 17 ministerial posts including the chief minister, JD(U) 15 including the deputy CM, two positions will go to the LJP (Ram Vilas), and one each to Hindustan Awam Morcha (HAM) and Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM).
Under the constitutional provisions, Bihar, with a 243-member Assembly, can have a maximum of 36 ministers in the cabinet.
Leaders from smaller allies are also expected to retain representation in the new government. Sources said Suman Kumar of HAM and Deepak Prakash of RLM are likely to continue as ministers.
In addition, the BJP may retain the post of Assembly Speaker, while the JD(U) could be accommodated with the chairmanship of the Legislative Council as part of the alliance’s power-sharing arrangement.
“The new head of the state government will be named as per the wish and direction of Nitish,” a senior alliance leader said, highlighting the continuing influence of the veteran leader in shaping the next phase of Bihar politics.
