Patna/New Delhi: With the Bihar Assembly elections concluded, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has secured a clear majority, paving the way for government formation. NDA sources indicate that Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar is set to return as Chief Minister, as both JD(U) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have reportedly reached a final understanding on cabinet composition. The BJP is expected to appoint one Deputy Chief Minister, while both parties have agreed in principle to maintain a balanced allocation of key ministries.
Senior BJP and JD(U) leaders are meeting in New Delhi today to finalize the power-sharing arrangement, with the post of Bihar Assembly Speaker emerging as a key point of contention. The BJP is keen on retaining the position, held in the previous Assembly by Nand Kishore Yadav, while JD(U) is pushing to secure the role this time. Both parties held late-night discussions, and top JD(U) leaders, including Sanjay Kumar Jha and Lalan Singh, have travelled to Delhi for negotiations.
Talks with Smaller NDA Allies Conclude
Parallel consultations led by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan were held with smaller coalition partners, including Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Jitan Ram Manjhi’s Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), and Upendra Kushwaha’s Rashtriya Lok Samata Party. Sources suggest a formula under which one ministerial berth would be allotted for every six MLAs, with all three allies likely to secure representation in the new cabinet.
New Government Expected by November 20
Separate legislative party meetings of the BJP and JD(U) will take place in Delhi today, followed by a joint NDA session. The alliance aims to complete government formation by November 20, with Nitish Kumar and newly inducted cabinet ministers expected to take oath on the same day.