New Delhi/Patna, March 30: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday resigned from the Bihar Legislative Council days after being elected to the Rajya Sabha, fuelling speculation about a possible change of guard in the state’s top post.
The move has intensified political activity within the ruling alliance, with both the Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party weighing their options amid uncertainty over the next chief minister.
While no immediate announcement is expected, JD(U) leaders have repeatedly cited a constitutional provision that allows a chief minister to continue in office for up to six months without being a member of the legislature, indicating a possible delay in leadership transition.
“He can… remain the Chief Minister of Bihar for the next six months as per provisions of the Constitution,” senior minister Shravan Kumar said, hinting at the legal window available.
Sources in the NDA, however, suggested that Kumar is unlikely to continue for the entire six-month period, with the transition likely to be “calibrated” carefully. Insiders indicated that any decision may come after the conclusion of ‘Kharmaas’ on April 14, while Kumar is expected to take oath as a Rajya Sabha member around April 10.
The developments have energised the BJP, which is seen as keen to install its own chief minister in Bihar for the first time despite being a long-time ally. Among the frontrunners are Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai.
Kumar, who secured a Rajya Sabha seat on March 16, was required to resign from the state legislature within 14 days. His resignation letter was submitted through JD(U) leader Sanjay Gandhi.
Amid closed-door meetings within the JD(U), sections of the party are said to be urging Kumar to continue as chief minister, even as uncertainty over his successor keeps political circles abuzz.
