In a smooth and unanimous proceeding, the Bihar Legislative Assembly on Thursday elected veteran Janata Dal (United) leader Narendra Narayan Yadav as its new Deputy Speaker. The 74-year-old politician was declared elected unopposed by Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar, marking a significant moment in the state's political landscape.
A Stalwart's Return to the Deputy Speaker's Chair
This election marks a return to familiar territory for Yadav, who first assumed the Deputy Speaker's post last year. He had taken over the position after his party colleague, Maheshwar Hazari, resigned to join Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's cabinet. Yadav's latest elevation follows his recent role as the pro-tem speaker, a responsibility he was appointed to by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan. He held that interim position until Tuesday, when Prem Kumar was unanimously elected as the full-fledged Speaker of the House.
Decades of Legislative Service from Madhepura
Narendra Narayan Yadav is a political fixture in Bihar, with a career deeply rooted in his constituency. He is an eight-time MLA representing the Alamnagar assembly segment in Madhepura district. His unwavering connection with the constituency is evident from the fact that he has continuously represented Alamnagar since 1995, a testament to his grassroots connect and political endurance.
Born in Bala Tola, Madhepura district, Yadav's political consciousness was shaped early. He actively participated in the historic J P Movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan, which was a defining chapter in India's political history. His long innings in public service includes significant ministerial responsibilities in cabinets led by Nitish Kumar. He has held important portfolios such as Minister of Law and Minor Water Resources and Minister of Panchayati Raj, giving him a wide administrative perspective.
Implications for Bihar's Political Assembly
The unanimous election underscores the current consensus within the ruling coalition in Bihar. It places an experienced and seasoned legislator in a key parliamentary position, responsible for maintaining decorum and assisting in the smooth conduct of assembly proceedings. Yadav's deep understanding of legislative norms, honed over nearly three decades as an MLA and as a former minister, is expected to bring stability and experience to the assembly's functioning.
His election without opposition reflects the strength of the ruling alliance and sets the stage for the upcoming legislative agenda. As the state government prepares to present its plans and policies, having a veteran like Yadav in the Deputy Speaker's chair ensures procedural expertise will guide the assembly's debates and discussions.
