BJP assumes leadership in Bihar for the first time as Samrat Choudhary succeeds Nitish Kumar, signalling a major transition in the state’s political landscape after nearly two decades of JD(U)-led governance.
Senior BJP leader Samrat Choudhary was sworn in as the 21st Chief Minister of Bihar today, marking a significant political transition in the state. The oath was administered by Governor Syed Ata Hasnain at a ceremony held in Raj Bhavan, attended by senior BJP leaders and allies from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Choudhary’s appointment signals the first time the Bharatiya Janata Party has taken direct leadership of the Bihar government. He replaces Nitish Kumar, who stepped down a day earlier after dissolving his Cabinet and has since moved to the Rajya Sabha. Prior to his elevation, Choudhary served as Deputy Chief Minister and held the Home portfolio, positioning him as a key figure in governance.
Rise of Samrat Choudhary
The 57-year-old leader was elected as the BJP legislative party leader on Tuesday. With 89 legislators in the 243-member Assembly, the BJP is currently the single largest party in Bihar. Choudhary’s elevation also carries social and political significance, as he becomes one of the few leaders from the Koeri community to hold the Chief Minister’s post.
His political journey spans nearly three decades, beginning with an early stint as a minister in the late 1990s. After initial setbacks, he built his career through electoral victories and leadership roles across parties. His move to the BJP in 2017 proved pivotal, enabling a rapid rise within the party ranks—from state leadership roles to becoming a prominent face in Bihar politics.
Once a vocal critic of Nitish Kumar, Choudhary later emerged as a key NDA ally. His appointment as Deputy Chief Minister in 2024 further strengthened his position, supported by the party’s central leadership and his electoral base in the state.
End of Nitish Kumar’s long stint in power
Nitish Kumar’s resignation marks the end of an era in Bihar politics. Having first assumed office in 2005, Kumar served multiple terms as Chief Minister and remained a central figure in the state’s governance for nearly two decades. Known for his focus on governance reforms and social welfare initiatives, he built a strong support base among backward and marginalised communities.
However, his tenure was also characterised by shifting political alliances between the NDA and opposition coalitions, drawing mixed reactions from observers. Despite this, Kumar retained significant influence in the state’s political landscape.
With Choudhary now at the helm, Bihar enters a new phase, with the BJP aiming to consolidate its position and chart a distinct governance path in the state.
