Nitish Kumar Steps Down as Bihar Chief Minister After Historic 26-Year Tenure
In a significant political development, Nitish Kumar, the longest-serving chief minister of Bihar, officially resigned from his position on Tuesday. This move brings an end to an extraordinary tenure that spanned more than two decades, from March 2000 to April 2026.
Resignation and Transition Ceremony
Nitish Kumar submitted his resignation to Governor Syed Ata Hasnain at Lok Bhavan in Patna. He was accompanied by key political figures, including the new CM-elect and outgoing deputy chief minister Samrat Choudhary, JD(U) national working president Sanjay Jha, and outgoing minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary.
Shift to National Politics
His resignation marks a strategic shift to national politics, following his election to the Rajya Sabha on March 16, 2026, and his subsequent oath-taking as a member of the Upper House of Parliament on April 10. This transition signals a new chapter in his extensive political career.
Official Statement on Social Media
In a post on X earlier in the day, Nitish Kumar, who took oath as chief minister ten times, explained his decision to step down. He stated that after careful consideration, he felt it was the right time to leave the CM's post. He also pledged unwavering support to the incoming administration and expressed optimism about Bihar's future progress.
"We have accomplished significant work for the people of Bihar. For many years, we have served the public continuously. I decided to relinquish the chief minister's position, and today, after the Cabinet meeting, I met the honourable Governor and submitted my resignation," he wrote. "The new government will now oversee operations here. It will have my full support and guidance. Excellent work will continue, and Bihar will achieve great progress."
Reflections on Governance and Development
Reflecting on the NDA's governance since first forming the government in Bihar on November 24, 2005, Nitish highlighted his administration's focus on law and order and inclusive development across all communities and sectors.
"Since November 24, 2005, when the NDA government was established, the rule of law has prevailed, and we have been dedicated to development work. The government has worked for all sections of society—Hindus, Muslims, upper castes, backward classes, extremely backward classes, Dalits, and Mahadalits. Progress has been made in every sector, including education, health, roads, electricity, and agriculture. Significant initiatives have also been undertaken for women and youth," he said.
Acknowledgement of Central Support
Nitish Kumar credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government for their support in Bihar's recent advancements. He referenced the state's development roadmap, "Saat Nishchay-3," formulated for the period from 2025 to 2030, which aims to propel Bihar further forward.
"The Centre is fully cooperating in Bihar's development. We extend our respects to the honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi ji. Bihar will develop more rapidly and rank among the top states in the country," he added.
Legacy and Political Identity
Widely known as "Sushashan Babu" or the man of good governance, Nitish Kumar built his political reputation on administrative reform and social empowerment. His tenure was marked by landmark initiatives such as the bicycle scheme for girls and 35 percent reservation for women in government jobs.
However, his career was also characterized by repeated alliance shifts between the NDA and various iterations of the Mahagathbandhan. With his entry into the Rajya Sabha, Nitish has now achieved his long-held ambition of serving in all four legislative houses: the Bihar Assembly, Bihar Legislative Council, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha.
