BJP’s Samrat Choudhary to be next Bihar CM after Nitish Kumar resigns

Nitish Kumar resigned as Bihar Chief Minister on April 14, marking the end of a long political innings in the state and paving the way for a leadership transition within the ruling NDA alliance.

Kumar submitted his resignation to the governor after chairing his final cabinet meeting and recommending the dissolution of the existing government. His exit follows his recent move to the Rajya Sabha, signalling a shift from state to national politics.

Soon after his resignation, Samrat Choudhary was chosen as the leader of the NDA legislative party, effectively clearing the path for him to become the next Chief Minister. The formal announcement came after meetings of BJP and NDA legislators in Patna, where his name was proposed and backed unanimously.

Choudhary, who has been serving as Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister, is expected to take oath on April 15. His elevation marks a significant political shift, as he is set to become the first Chief Minister from the Bharatiya Janata Party in Bihar.

Nitish Kumar, one of Bihar’s longest-serving leaders, has held the Chief Minister’s post multiple times over nearly two decades and has been a central figure in the state’s politics. His resignation signals the end of an era defined by shifting alliances and coalition governments.

The transition also reflects a changing balance within the NDA, with the BJP taking a leading role in the state government. Party leaders described the development as a “new beginning” for Bihar, expressing confidence that the incoming leadership would continue governance and development initiatives.

Choudhary’s selection is also seen as politically significant, with the BJP projecting him as a key OBC face in the state. His rise within the party and eventual elevation to the top post underline the party’s broader strategy to strengthen its social and political base in Bihar.

The new government is expected to be sworn in shortly, with NDA allies likely to be accommodated in the cabinet. Officials indicated that governance continuity and ongoing development projects will remain key priorities during the transition.

The leadership change comes at a time when Bihar is preparing for upcoming political and administrative challenges, making the shift in power a closely watched development in national politics.