The political landscape in Bihar is preparing for yet another dramatic turn as chief minister Nitish Kumar moves toward resignation to clear the path for a new National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. Despite stepping down, he is widely expected to return as chief minister once again, adding a layer of intrigue and anticipation across the state. With the oath-taking ceremony scheduled at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan, Bihar finds itself in the middle of a political whirlwind filled with speculation and strategic manoeuvring.
The developments have stirred discussions across political circles, with supporters and critics alike debating Nitish Kumar’s next steps. The shift comes at a crucial moment as the current assembly’s term nears its end, prompting urgent decisions within the alliance. As the NDA prepares to assume power once again, the atmosphere in Bihar is charged with expectations, questions, and possible surprises that the new cabinet might bring.
What makes this transition particularly significant is the element of suspense. Alliance leaders have hinted at big changes and “surprise elements” that could reshape the political narrative. With state politics already known for its unpredictability, the upcoming oath ceremony is set to become one of the most closely watched events in recent years.
Nitish Kumar Set to Resign to Facilitate New NDA Government
Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar is scheduled to submit his resignation on Wednesday, November 19, enabling the formation of a fresh NDA-led government. This move, however, appears to be more procedural than transformational, as multiple alliance leaders have suggested that Nitish Kumar is likely to return as the chief minister once the new government is sworn in the following day.
The preparations for the oath-taking ceremony are already underway at Gandhi Maidan, where dignitaries from various parts of the country, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are expected to attend. The grand setup reflects the importance attached to this transition, making it one of the most elaborate political events in Bihar’s recent history.
Although there has been no official declaration confirming Nitish Kumar’s continuation as CM, the statements from within the alliance strongly indicate a near certainty. Leaders have hinted that the new cabinet may include unexpected names, suggesting an attempt to balance experience with new faces.
Alliance Signals Surprises in New Cabinet Formation
While discussions surrounding the leadership remain active, alliance leaders have also teased the possibility of surprise elements in the upcoming cabinet. This has fuelled widespread speculation about the composition of the next government and the roles different parties may play.
The current assembly ends on November 22, and the 18th assembly must be constituted before that date. The swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for November 20, is expected to attract national attention as the NDA attempts to project unity and strength.
According to senior BJP leaders, the event may be the grandest Bihar has witnessed so far, with high-profile attendees and a strong display of political coordination between alliance partners.
Bihar Government Formation: Key Points
The NDA administration is expected to take shape with a renewed focus on representation and coalition balance. Among the major highlights is the presence of top national leaders at the swearing-in ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several Union ministers and chief ministers from NDA-ruled states, is set to grace the occasion.
Alliance insiders have indicated that strategic negotiations have been underway for days, with each party pushing for key portfolios. The internal dynamics between the BJP and JD(U), especially regarding the home and education ministries, are likely to influence the final cabinet structure.
The leadership decisions will play a crucial role in determining how the alliance navigates the state’s governance challenges. The emphasis appears to be on striking a balance between regional representation, caste equations, and administrative experience.
Nitish Kumar Meets Governor as Resignation Looms
In an important procedural move, Nitish Kumar met governor Arif Mohammad Khan to inform him about the cabinet’s recommendation to dissolve the current legislative assembly. JD(U) minister Vijay Kumar Chowdhary confirmed that Nitish Kumar will formally resign on November 19 as the head of the outgoing government.
Following his resignation, Nitish Kumar is expected to present a letter of support from all NDA alliance partners to facilitate the formation of the new administration. This marks the beginning of a new political chapter that will once again see him emerge as a central figure in Bihar politics.
The resignation aligns with the alliance’s internal strategy to reset the government structure while maintaining continuity at the leadership level. It also positions Nitish Kumar to initiate his 10th term as chief minister—a rare political milestone in Indian politics.
Key Meetings to Decide New Leadership Structure
BJP and JD(U) leaders are scheduled to hold crucial legislature party meetings to finalise the chief minister and deputy chief minister positions. While most indications point toward Nitish Kumar’s return as CM, the identity of the deputy CM—or deputy CMs—remains undecided.
NDA leaders have suggested that the final decision will be revealed at these meetings. Both parties are evaluating representation concerns, including caste and gender considerations, to arrive at a balanced leadership structure.
The JD(U) has reportedly recommended that if the BJP retains the Speaker’s post, the state should have only one deputy chief minister, instead of two as in the outgoing government. This proposal has become a critical point of negotiation in the evolving power-sharing arrangement.
Cabinet Size, Formula and Power Distribution Within NDA
The alliance is working on a formula that allocates one ministerial position for roughly every six MLAs. This method is intended to maintain proportional representation among coalition partners. According to this formula, smaller allies like the RLM, HAM(S) and LJP(RV) are each likely to secure limited but significant positions in the cabinet.
With the Constitution restricting state cabinets to 15% of the total assembly strength, Bihar can have a maximum of 36 ministers, including the chief minister. Most of these positions are expected to be divided between the BJP and JD(U), leaving the remaining slots for smaller partners.
Meanwhile, the competition for key portfolios such as home and education remains intense. Both the BJP and JD(U) are eyeing the home portfolio, which was held by JD(U) in the previous government. The outcome of this tug-of-war will shape administrative priorities for the next five years.
Nitish Kumar’s Expected 10th Term as Chief Minister
If Nitish Kumar takes the oath once again, this term will mark his 10th as chief minister—cementing his position as Bihar’s longest-serving leader. Since 2005, he has worked with six different deputy chief ministers, representing both the BJP and RJD at different times.
This longevity highlights Nitish Kumar’s political adaptability and his influence in state politics. Each term has brought new alliances, strategic shifts, and governance challenges, making his leadership a case study in India’s coalition politics.
The upcoming oath ceremony at Gandhi Maidan will be the fourth one held at the venue under his leadership, symbolising his recurring role in shaping Bihar’s political trajectory.
Bihar Election Results and NDA’s Sweeping Victory
The recently concluded assembly elections resulted in a massive victory for the NDA, securing 202 out of 243 seats. The BJP won 89 seats, the JD(U) 85, LJP(RV) 19, HAM(S) five, and RLM four. In contrast, the Mahagathbandhan managed only 35 seats, reflecting a decisive shift in voter sentiment.
This strong mandate has provided the NDA with a stable foundation to form the next government. It also grants them the leverage to make bold organisational decisions, including major cabinet reshuffles and structural changes in governance.
With a new government forming and potential surprises on the horizon, Bihar enters a new political phase—one filled with expectations, strategic calculations, and the enduring presence of Nitish Kumar at its centre.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
