Bihar Deputy CM Reaffirms Nitish Kumar's Leadership Amid Transition Speculation
In a significant political statement, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Samrat Choudhary has firmly asserted that the state government will continue to function under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. This declaration comes amidst growing speculation regarding Kumar's anticipated move to the Rajya Sabha next month.
Public Assurance at Samriddhi Yatra Event
Speaking at a Jan Samvad program held at Saharsa stadium during Nitish Kumar's ongoing Samriddhi Yatra, Choudhary addressed the gathered crowd with a clear message. "The government in Bihar is functioning under the leadership of Nitish Kumar ji. Even in the coming days, the government of Bihar will continue to function under his leadership only. I assure you of this," he stated emphatically.
Notably, Nitish Kumar, who is expected to relinquish the chief minister's post after taking oath as a Rajya Sabha member, was present on the dais when Choudhary made these remarks, adding weight to the statement.
Praise for Nitish Kumar's Developmental Legacy
Choudhary, who is being considered as a possible contender for the chief minister's post if the BJP leads the next NDA government in Bihar, took the opportunity to praise Kumar's extensive contributions to the state. He highlighted that Bihar owes much to its longest-serving chief minister, who took charge soon after the creation of Jharkhand—a development that had stripped Bihar of more than 80% of its revenue.
Recalling the economic challenges, Choudhary noted that when Nitish Kumar first became chief minister in November 2005, the state budget stood at only Rs 6,000 crore. "It is a testament to the CM's financial management that the latest budget has now increased to Rs 3.5 lakh crore," he remarked, underscoring the dramatic fiscal transformation under Kumar's tenure.
Infrastructure and Development Milestones
Choudhary elaborated on specific infrastructure improvements, particularly in the Saharsa region and surrounding areas:
- Transportation: He recalled that Saharsa and nearby areas used to become isolated islands during floods, with the B P Mandal bridge taking years to repair when damaged. Today, travel times have drastically improved—from 4-5 hours between Khagaria and Saharsa to just 4 hours from Patna to Saharsa.
- Road Network: A comprehensive network of roads has been established in areas surrounded by rivers like Kosi, Kali Kosi, and Gandak, with hundreds of small and large bridges constructed to enhance connectivity.
- Electricity Access: Before 2005, Bihar had only 17 lakh electricity consumers. This number has now risen to 2 crore 16 lakh, with the state receiving an average of 23 to 24 hours of electricity daily. Additionally, with free power up to 125 units, nearly 88% of consumers are receiving zero bills.
Political Gestures and Support
At the conclusion of his 35-minute speech, Nitish Kumar responded warmly by walking up to Choudhary on the dais, placing a hand on his shoulder, and asking the audience to affirm that work is being done in Bihar. Choudhary stood with folded hands in a gesture of respect.
Earlier in the event, Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary added, "Whatever NDA government is formed, it will not run without the CM's advice, so please give strength to the new government as well."
Saharsa MP Dinesh Chandra Yadav directly addressed the chief minister, stating, "You are going to Rajya Sabha. The people of Bihar are saddened by your departure. It was your wish to go to the Rajya Sabha, so we stand by your decision. Please continue to keep your benevolent gaze on Bihar."
This public display of unity and acknowledgment of Nitish Kumar's leadership comes at a critical juncture as Bihar prepares for a potential political transition, with the deputy chief minister's assurances aiming to maintain stability and continuity in governance.
