NEW DELHI: Bihar’s power corridors are witnessing a dramatic shift as the BJP has firmly asserted its dominance over the Nitish-led NDA government. After snatching the crucial Home Department from JD(U), the BJP has now compelled Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to concede the Speaker’s post, marking his second major setback since taking oath.
The first session of the newly elected Bihar Assembly will begin on December 1, when all 243 MLAs will be administered the oath by Protem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav of the JD(U). With the initial formalities expected to conclude by December 2, the election of the new Speaker now appears to be a one-sided affair in favour of the BJP.
The BJP has already floated the name of its Senior Dalit leader and nine time MLA from Gaya City, Prem Kumar, for the prestigious post. His candidature is likely to be formally announced by the Protem Speaker during the session.
If a contest arises, the election may be conducted the next day, but political observers say the JD(U) is no longer in a position to resist.
Insiders reveal that Nitish Kumar, facing strong central pressure, has chosen a “wait-and-watch” approach to avoid further confrontation with the BJP. With the Home portfolio already gone and the Speaker’s position slipping away, JD(U)’s bargaining power within the alliance stands significantly eroded.
Political analysts believe that the balance of power in Bihar has decisively shifted. While Nitish remains the Chief Minister, key administrative decisions will now be shaped by the BJP leadership, particularly under guidance from New Delhi.
The BJP’s top brass appears fully focused on consolidating control. Both Deputy Chief Ministers — Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha — are currently camping in Delhi. Their arrival at the airport triggered an unusually warm reception by BJP supporters, a rare honour generally not extended to state-level ministers in the capital.
BJP National President JP Nadda hosted a special dinner for them, followed by a series of meetings scheduled at Home Minister Amit Shah’s residence, indicating the importance the party attaches to Bihar’s evolving political architecture
With the BJP controlling the Home Ministry and poised to take over the Speaker’s chair, the party now commands both law-and-order machinery and the legislative process. This dual control effectively places the BJP at the centre of power in Bihar, leaving Nitish Kumar with limited operational space.
Observers say the developments signal a new era of BJP-driven governance, where Nitish may retain the chair of Chief Minister, but the steering wheel is now firmly in BJP’s hands
(Writer is Senior Journalist and Political Commentator)
