Nitish Kumar's Son Nishant Declines Deputy CM Position in New Bihar Cabinet
In a surprising political development, Nishant Kumar, the only son of former chief minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, has chosen not to join the newly formed Bihar cabinet. This decision came on Wednesday despite strong speculation that he would be appointed as a deputy chief minister following his recent entry into the JD(U).
Focus on Grassroots Work Over Immediate Government Post
According to JD(U) sources, Nishant declined the offer because he wants to spend the next six months working among the people and strengthening the party organization instead of taking up a government post immediately. His decision came even as a section of senior JD(U) leaders had reportedly pushed for his inclusion in the cabinet.
Nishant also stayed away from the swearing-in ceremony held at Lok Bhavan on Wednesday, adding to the buzz around his political future. When asked by reporters about Nishant's absence and whether he would formally enter active politics, JD(U)'s new deputy CM Bijendra Prasad Yadav said, "He himself has to decide whether he will come into politics or not."
Senior Leaders Take Deputy CM Positions
After Nishant stepped aside, senior JD(U) leaders Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav were sworn in as the party's two deputy chief ministers in the new government. This development marks a significant moment in Bihar's political landscape as the JD(U) consolidates its leadership structure.
Influence of Previous Nepotism Criticism
Party insiders revealed that Nishant's refusal was also influenced by the criticism that followed the induction of Deepak Prakash, son of RLM chief Upendra Kushwaha, into Nitish's 10th cabinet in November 2025. Deepak Prakash had taken oath as a minister despite not being a member of either the Bihar legislative assembly or the legislative council, triggering sharp public criticism and allegations of nepotism.
A JD(U) leader explained that Nishant has long kept a distance from active politics, preferring a spiritual and quiet life. Though he has now joined the party, he is not yet prepared to accept a cabinet berth and wants to focus first on organizational work.
Six-Month Plan for Party Strengthening
Another party functionary said Nishant has informed the leadership that he will not accept any post for at least six months. During this period, he plans to:
- Travel across Bihar extensively
- Meet party workers in all districts
- Help strengthen the JD(U)'s grassroots network
Sources added that he may consider a role in the government only after completing this outreach and becoming a member of either of Bihar's two legislative houses. This strategic approach suggests a calculated entry into politics rather than an immediate assumption of power.
The decision reflects a growing awareness within political families about public perception and the importance of earning credibility through grassroots work before taking on significant government responsibilities.
