Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is scheduled to be sworn in as a Rajya Sabha member on April 10, according to sources familiar with the matter. The sources mentioned that Kumar will make the journey from Patna to Delhi on April 9 and is likely to spend two to three days in the capital, where he is anticipated to have meetings with senior BJP figures.
It is hinted by sources that Kumar is expected to step down as Chief Minister shortly after his return to Patna, paving the way for the establishment of a new government in Bihar. His return is projected to take place on or after April 12.
The decision of the JD(U) chief to transition to the Rajya Sabha has sparked discussions about the next Chief Minister, particularly as it follows his recent victory in the Assembly elections. While aides refer to constitutional provisions allowing a non-legislator to hold the Chief Minister position for a maximum of six months, NDA sources suggest that Kumar is unlikely to stay in office for that entire duration.
A change in leadership is foreseen after the conclusion of the Kharmaas period on April 14, as reported by news agency PTI. The BJP, which has been a part of Bihar’s ruling alliance for close to two decades without occupying the top position, is reportedly eager to claim the Chief Minister role this time around.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is emerging as a top contender, with Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai also under consideration. Party insiders indicate that the final decision will be made at a legislative party meeting but will essentially be determined by the central leadership.
On the other hand, JD(U) sources suggest that the party is likely to negotiate a substantial share in the new cabinet as part of any transition agreement, with talks also revolving around a potential significant role for Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar.
In the midst of these developments, the Bihar Home Department affirmed that Nitish Kumar will retain his ‘Z Plus’ security even after stepping down as Chief Minister. A directive issued by the Special Branch assures the continuation of his protection upon assuming office as a Rajya Sabha member.
This decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of his security needs under the Bihar Special Security Act, 2000, with the Director General of Police and the Special Branch entrusted to guarantee the highest level of security.
‘Z Plus’ security is the highest level of protection in India, typically granted to the Prime Minister, the President, and senior political figures, comprising approximately 55 personnel including Personal Security Officers, armed guards, escort vehicles, and round-the-clock surveillance.
Nitish Kumar was elected to the Rajya Sabha on March 16 and resigned from the Bihar Legislative Council on March 30, marking a significant political shift in the state. Prior to formally taking his seat in the Upper House, he recently surveyed a government bungalow at 7 Circular Road, expected to serve as his residence after relinquishing the Chief Minister position. The bungalow holds political importance, having been a significant location during key phases of Kumar’s career.