Politics – Nitish Kumar Holds Final Cabinet Meet Before Stepping Down
Politics – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar chaired his final cabinet meeting on Tuesday, just hours before he is expected to submit his resignation to Governor Syed Ata Hussain. The brief meeting, which lasted around 30 minutes, was attended by all members of the cabinet and marked the closing chapter of his tenure in the state’s top executive role.
Cabinet Meeting Focuses on Continuity and Cooperation
During the meeting, Nitish Kumar urged his colleagues to remain committed to the state’s progress even after the transition of power. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with the incoming government and encouraged ministers to continue working collectively for Bihar’s development. His remarks reflected an effort to ensure administrative stability during the leadership change.
NDA Government Set to Take Charge
A new government under the National Democratic Alliance is scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday, with a Bharatiya Janata Party leader expected to assume the role of chief minister. Nitish Kumar, who also leads the Janata Dal (United), noted that his administration had accomplished significant developmental work and expressed confidence that the state would continue to move forward under new leadership.
He also acknowledged the support extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past 11 years, stating that the cooperation between the Centre and the state had played a crucial role in Bihar’s development initiatives.
Emotional Farewell Among Ministers
The cabinet meeting carried an emotional undertone, with several ministers expressing their sentiments about Nitish Kumar’s departure. State SC/ST Welfare Minister Lakhendra Kumar Roushan said that the chief minister had asked everyone to remain focused on development and assured that Nitish Kumar would continue to guide the government in the future.
Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav echoed similar views, highlighting the sense of unity within the cabinet. Food and Consumer Protection Minister Lesi Singh also shared that while the decision was respected, many were not happy to see Nitish Kumar step down. She confirmed that his move to the Rajya Sabha was a personal decision.
Political Developments and Leadership Selection
Nitish Kumar is expected to formally resign in the afternoon after chairing a meeting of the JD(U) legislature party. Later in the day, the NDA will convene its own meeting to elect a new leader. Senior BJP figures, including Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, party president Nitin Nabin, and Bihar in-charge Vinod Tawde, have already arrived in Patna to oversee the process.
Chouhan has been appointed as the central observer to ensure a smooth selection of the BJP legislature party leader, who will take charge as the next chief minister.
End of a Significant Political Era
Nitish Kumar’s resignation marks a major turning point in Bihar’s political landscape. Having led the state for over two decades in multiple terms, his governance style was seen as a balancing force between different political ideologies. He managed alliances with both the BJP and the Rashtriya Janata Dal at different times, while maintaining a focus on governance and development.
His tenure was also noted for efforts to curb both religious polarization and caste-based dominance in politics. By promoting inclusive growth and prioritizing women’s empowerment, he built a broad support base that included non-Yadav Other Backward Classes, Extremely Backward Classes, Mahadalits, and women voters.
Future Uncertainty Around Support Base
With Nitish Kumar now moving to the Rajya Sabha, questions remain about the future of his core voter base. His political influence, particularly among communities such as Kurmis and Kushwahas, has been a defining factor in Bihar’s electoral dynamics. Observers are now watching closely to see how these groups respond to the leadership transition.
Nitish Kumar took oath as a member of the Upper House on April 10, marking his formal shift from state to national politics. His departure from Bihar’s active leadership also signals the fading presence of leaders associated with the socialist movement inspired by Jayaprakash Narayan.