Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday submitted his resignation to Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, paving the way for the formation of a new NDA government after the coalition’s sweeping victory in the recently
concluded assembly polls.
Kumar’s move came a day after the outgoing cabinet met to authorise him to take the “necessary action” for government formation.
The resignation sets in motion the process for the formation of a new government backed by the NDA, which secured over 200 seats in the 243-member Assembly, with the BJP emerging on top with 89 seats, followed by the JD(U)’s 85.
The Chief Electoral Officer had earlier handed the list of elected members to the Governor, clearing another procedural step for the transition.
News agency PTI quoted JD(U) insiders as saying that preparations have begun for a grand swearing-in ceremony, likely at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan, with indications that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may attend, having pledged during the campaign that he would “be back for the swearing-in of a new NDA government”.
The government formation and the oath is likely on November 20.
The JD(U), buoyed by its improved tally since 2020, is seeking greater representation in the new cabinet.
Alliance arithmetic, however, is expected to be tricky with new partners like LJP(RV), which won 19 seats, and the RLM pushing for their share.
LJP(RV) chief Chirag Paswan has openly expressed his willingness to join the government, though he sidestepped questions about seeking a deputy chief minister’s post.
HAM, another NDA ally, reiterated its support.
Meanwhile, the RJD, the principal opposition party, continues to reel from internal turmoil following its electoral defeat.
Rohini Acharya, daughter of RJD chief Lalu Prasad, has levelled emotional accusations against her younger brother Tejashwi Yadav and his close aides, alleging humiliation, personal attacks, and attempts to silence her.
Acharya, who claims she enjoys “full support of parents and sisters”, squarely blamed younger brother Tejashwi Yadav, her father’s heir apparent, and the latter’s close aides for her humiliation.
ALSO READ | Bihar Election Result: Only One In Four MLAs Secured Over 50% Mandate, Every Second From BJP
