Patna: A major political development is underway in Patna, where the Bihar government led by Samrat Choudhary is set to hold a grand cabinet expansion ceremony on Thursday at the historic Gandhi Maidan. The event comes 22 days after the formation of the new government and is being positioned as a significant show of strength by the ruling alliance.
Preparations have intensified at both administrative and political levels, with elaborate security arrangements being put in place in view of the expected presence of several high-profile leaders. According to state BJP president Sanjay Saraogi, the ceremony is likely to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP national president Nitin Nabin, and former chief minister Nitish Kumar, along with several senior party figures.
Chief ministers from other states and union ministers are also expected to attend, further elevating the political significance of the event. Authorities are preparing for a heavy security presence to manage the VVIP movement.
The cabinet expansion had earlier been deferred due to ongoing assembly elections in five states. With the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) securing victories in three of them, party leaders appear keen to capitalise on the momentum and stage a high-visibility ceremony.
Sources indicate that several new faces may be inducted into the cabinet, with efforts to strike a balance across caste and regional lines. Leaders active within the organisation are also likely to be accommodated. The number of ministers from the BJP and Janata Dal (United) is expected to remain equal, while some existing ministers could see a reshuffle of portfolios.
The venue adds a layer of symbolism. While Nitish Kumar had taken oath at Gandhi Maidan after the 2025 election victory, this time the ceremony will be limited to ministers. It is likely the first occasion in the ground’s history that a collective swearing-in will be held without the chief minister.
The event is being viewed not only as an administrative exercise but also as a political signal, offering clues about the ruling alliance’s strategy in the months ahead.
