Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to take the oath as a Rajya Sabha member on April 10, sources told India Today. According to sources, Kumar will travel from Patna to Delhi on April 9 and may remain in the capital for two to three days, during which he is expected to meet senior BJP leaders.
Sources indicate that Kumar is likely to resign as Chief Minister soon after returning to Patna, setting the stage for the formation of a new government in Bihar. His return is expected on or after April 12.
The JD(U) chief’s decision to move to the Rajya Sabha has intensified speculation over the next Chief Minister, especially as it comes just months after he secured a fresh mandate in the Assembly elections.
While aides point to constitutional provisions that allow a non-legislator to remain Chief Minister for up to six months, sources within the NDA suggest Kumar is unlikely to continue in office for that duration.
A leadership transition is expected after the Kharmaas period ends on April 14, according to news agency PTI. The BJP, which has been part of Bihar’s ruling coalition for nearly two decades without holding the top post, is said to be keen to stake claim this time.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is being seen as a frontrunner, while Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai is also in the reckoning. Party insiders say the final decision will be taken at a legislative party meeting but will effectively be made by the central leadership.
On the other hand, JD(U) sources indicate the party is likely to negotiate a significant share in the new cabinet as part of any transition arrangement, with discussions also around a possible prominent role for Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar.
Meanwhile, the Bihar Home Department has confirmed that Nitish Kumar will continue to receive ‘Z Plus’ security even after stepping down as Chief Minister. An order issued by the Special Branch states that his protection will remain in place upon assuming office as a Rajya Sabha member.
The decision follows a review of his security requirements under the Bihar Special Security Act, 2000, with the Director General of Police and the Special Branch tasked with ensuring the highest level of protection.
‘Z Plus’ is India’s top-tier security cover, typically reserved for the Prime Minister, the President, and senior political leaders, and includes around 55 personnel comprising 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, paving the way for a significant political transition in the state.
Ahead of formally assuming his Upper House seat, he recently inspected a government bungalow at 7 Circular Road, expected to be his residence after stepping down as Chief Minister. The bungalow carries political significance, having served as a base during key phases of Kumar’s career.
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