Leadership – Nitish Kumar Steps Down as Bihar Chief Minister After Long Tenure
Leadership – Veteran leader Nitish Kumar on Tuesday resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Bihar, bringing to a close a tenure that spanned more than two decades in different phases. He submitted his resignation to Governor Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (retd) following a cabinet meeting held earlier in the day.
Decision Announced After Cabinet Meeting
In a message shared on social media, Kumar confirmed that the decision to step down had been taken after discussions within the cabinet. He stated that it was time for a new government to take charge and assured that he would extend full support and guidance to the incoming leadership. Kumar expressed optimism about the state’s future, noting that the next administration would continue development efforts and take Bihar forward.
Reflection on Governance and Development
Looking back at his years in office, Kumar highlighted the work carried out since the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) first formed a government in Bihar in November 2005. He emphasized improvements in law and order and pointed to development initiatives across multiple sectors. According to him, efforts were made to ensure inclusive growth, covering all sections of society regardless of social or economic background.
He cited progress in areas such as education, healthcare, road infrastructure, electricity supply, and agriculture. Special attention, he said, had also been given to empowering women and creating opportunities for young people in the state.
Acknowledging Central Support
Kumar also credited the central government for its role in Bihar’s development, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for continued cooperation. He referred to future plans under the “7 Nishchay-3” initiative for the 2025–2030 period, stating that these programs would further accelerate progress and strengthen Bihar’s position among leading states in the country.
He conveyed confidence that the state would witness faster growth in the coming years and contribute significantly to national development.
Political Transition and New Leadership
Following Kumar’s resignation, senior BJP leader Samrat Choudhary was chosen as the Leader of the BJP Legislative Party in Bihar. This decision is seen as a key step toward forming the next government in the state. Political observers view this transition as an important moment in Bihar’s evolving leadership landscape.
Journey Through Legislative Roles
Earlier this month, Kumar had taken oath as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, marking a significant milestone in his political career. With this, he completed his long-standing goal of serving in all major legislative bodies in India, including the Bihar Assembly, Bihar Legislative Council, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha.
Before assuming his new role in Parliament, he had resigned from his membership in the Bihar Legislative Council.
Electoral Success and Long Tenure
Kumar’s resignation comes not long after his latest electoral victory in 2025, when the NDA secured a strong two-thirds majority in Bihar. He was sworn in as Chief Minister for the tenth time, underscoring his enduring influence in state politics.
Over the years, Kumar has remained a central figure in Bihar’s governance, navigating multiple political alliances while maintaining a focus on administrative reforms and development programs.
Looking Ahead
With a leadership change now underway, attention will shift to how the new government builds on existing policies and addresses ongoing challenges. Kumar’s assurance of continued support suggests that his role in shaping Bihar’s political and developmental direction may continue, albeit from a different position.
As Bihar enters this new phase, the transition marks both the end of an era and the beginning of another chapter in the state’s political journey.