New Delhi: In a moment that has sent shockwaves through Bihar’s political corridors, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has dropped the strongest hint yet regarding his successor.
During the ongoing ‘Samriddhi Yatra’ in Saharsa on Friday, the veteran leader appeared to publicly endorse Deputy Chief Minister and BJP heavyweight Samrat Chaudhary for the state’s top job.
In a poignant gesture that quickly went viral, Nitish placed his hands on Chaudhary’s shoulders while addressing a massive gathering, urging the public to extend their full support to the Deputy CM. “I request everyone to raise their hands in his support. Everything will be good. I have told him to carry forward many developmental works for the people,” the Chief Minister stated, effectively signaling a transition of power.
The timing of this endorsement is significant, as Nitish Kumar is set to demit office following his election to the Rajya Sabha on March 16. If the transition follows this script, Samrat Chaudhary, a prominent leader from the Kushwaha community, could become the first-ever Chief Minister from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar’s history.
Responding to the Chief Minister’s praise, Chaudhary maintained a respectful stance, asserting that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would continue to function under Nitish’s seasoned guidance. “Bihar owes a lot to Nitish Kumar ji. The new government will continue to work on the foundations of ‘Sushasan’ (good governance) that he has built over 20 years,” Chaudhary told reporters.
While the JD(U) and BJP are reportedly finalising a “power formula” that may include a Deputy CM post for Nitish’s son, Nishant Kumar, the spotlight remains firmly on Samrat Chaudhary. As Bihar stands on the cusp of a major leadership change, the “Nitish era” appears to be making way for a saffron-led future.