Patna: A political transition in Bihar appears imminent, with heightened security across the state capital and intense activity within the ruling alliance fuelling speculation that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may step down later on Tuesday.
Attention has shifted to the next phase of government formation, amid reports that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could, for the first time in Bihar’s history, appoint its own chief minister. Several senior party leaders have already reached Patna as internal deliberations gather pace.
Among those present is B. L. Santhosh, whose arrival has triggered a series of meetings at the party’s state headquarters. He was received at the airport by senior leaders including Sanjay Saraogi, Bhikhu Bhai Dalsaniya and Mangal Pandey.
The BJP’s legislative party is expected to meet later in the day to choose its leader, a process that will take place in the presence of central observer and union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Senior party figure Nitin Nabin is also expected to arrive in Patna.
Security has been stepped up across the city in anticipation of the political developments and the influx of senior leaders. Police have been deployed in large numbers along key routes, particularly around Lok Bhawan, where official proceedings are likely to take place. Movement of the general public has been restricted in several areas.
Additional security measures have been put in place at the residence of Samrat Choudhary, with authorities barring public entry within a 100-metre radius.
According to sources, Kumar is expected to submit his resignation at around 3pm. A swearing-in ceremony for the new chief minister is likely to be held on Wednesday, at Lok Bhawan, where the governor is expected to administer the oath of office.
Discussions over the composition of the new cabinet are understood to be at an advanced stage, with final decisions on ministerial appointments expected soon.
