A major political development is unfolding in Bihar as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is expected to resign from his post soon after taking oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Nitish Kumar had recently resigned from his position as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC). The move came ahead of his anticipated swearing-in as a Rajya Sabha MP on April 10. However, according to constitutional norms, he will also have to step down as Chief Minister to assume the role of a Member of Parliament.
This has raised a key political question in Bihar — when exactly will Nitish Kumar resign as Chief Minister? His resignation is considered crucial because it will pave the way for the formation of a new government in the state under the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to sources within the Janata Dal (United) (JDU), Nitish Kumar is likely to take oath as a Rajya Sabha member first. A senior JDU leader indicated that the oath ceremony may take place on April 10. The terms of five Rajya Sabha MPs from Bihar are set to end on April 9.
Although there will be no formal proceedings in the Rajya Sabha on April 10, sources suggest that Nitish Kumar and several newly elected members may still take their oath in the Upper House on that day. Newly elected Rajya Sabha MP and national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Nitin Naveen, is also expected to take the oath on the same day. Sources further revealed that Nitish Kumar will submit his resignation as Chief Minister only after completing the oath ceremony. He is likely to travel to Patna the following day and formally hand over his resignation to the Governor.
Once Nitish Kumar resigns, the path will be cleared for the formation of a new government in Bihar. It has reportedly been decided that the next government will be led by the BJP. Sources also indicate that along with a BJP Chief Minister, two Deputy Chief Ministers from the JDU quota may be appointed. One of the likely names being discussed for the post is Nishant Kumar, the son of Nitish Kumar.