Speculation Intensifies Over New Government Formation in Bihar
In Patna, speculation about the formation of a new government in Bihar has intensified once again following statements from JD(U) functionaries. They indicated that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to vacate his seat in the Bihar legislative council on Monday, March 30, to enter the Rajya Sabha. This move has sparked widespread discussions about the political future of the state.
Rajya Sabha Oath and NDA Dynamics
Sources within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have revealed that Nitish Kumar is expected to take oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha on April 10. He will be joined by four other leaders from Bihar: BJP national president Nitin Nabin, Union minister Ram Nath Thakur, RLM president Upendra Kushwaha, and BJP state general secretary Shivesh Kumar, all of whom have been elected to the Upper House of Parliament.
With Nitish Kumar's anticipated entry into the Rajya Sabha, questions have arisen regarding the timing of a new government formation in Bihar. Senior BJP leaders speculate that Nitish may resign as chief minister shortly after joining the Rajya Sabha, possibly within days or weeks. However, JD(U) leaders argue that he does not need to relinquish the post immediately, even after taking oath as a Parliament member.
Constitutional Provisions and Political Calculations
A JD(U) leader cited Article 164(4) of the Indian Constitution, explaining that Nitish Kumar can continue as chief minister for up to six months without being a member of any house of the state legislature. This provision allows him to retain the position without haste. "The chief minister is not expected to relinquish the post in a hurry," the leader emphasized.
In contrast, BJP leaders believe that Nitish may vacate the chief minister's post in mid-April, shortly after the conclusion of the inauspicious month of 'Khar-mas' on April 14. They anticipate that a new government could be sworn in within a day or two of his resignation.
Posters Project Nishant Kumar as Future CM
Adding to the political drama, a section of JD(U) workers put up posters in Patna on Saturday, projecting Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, as the future chief minister of Bihar. One such poster was prominently displayed at the main entrance gate of the JD(U)'s state office.
The posters carried a dual message: urging Nitish Kumar not to leave Bihar and suggesting that if he does step down, his political legacy should remain within the family. This indicates that many supporters are opposed to him relinquishing the CM post, but if it happens, they prefer Nishant as his successor.
Nishant Kumar's Rising Political Profile
Nishant Kumar has recently become more active in public life, fueling speculation about his political role. After formally joining the JD(U) on March 8 this year, he has been regularly attending party meetings and public events in Patna. This increased visibility signals a potential shift in his involvement in state politics.
JD(U) Spokesperson Coins New Slogan
JD(U) spokesperson and former minister Neeraj Kumar added to the discourse by coining a new slogan: "Jai Nishant, Tay Nishant" (meaning Nishant has been finalised). In a video statement, Neeraj stated, "The future of JD(U) is now in the hands of Nishant Kumar. Well-wishers of every party desire to see their leader in higher positions. Nishant Kumar Ji is the son of a statesman recognized as a 'climate leader and global thinker.' We too aspire for Nishant to reach the pinnacle."
However, Neeraj clarified that the decision on the next chief minister will be made by consensus among the NDA allies in Bihar. "Though we have the right to express our views, it will be decided collectively," he said.
Emphasis on the 'Nitish Model'
Quoting BJP national president Nitin Nabin, Neeraj Kumar asserted that any future government in Bihar will operate based on the 'Nitish model.' "It is the Nitish model which embodies the love of the people of Bihar," he declared, highlighting the enduring influence of Nitish Kumar's governance approach.
As political maneuvers continue, the situation remains fluid, with all eyes on Nitish Kumar's next steps and the potential implications for Bihar's governance and political landscape.
