A new political equation is emerging in Bihar as preparations begin for a new government under Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Both the JDU and the BJP have scheduled their legislative party meetings for Tuesday, during which each side will select its legislative party leader. Additionally, the two parties are engaging in detailed discussions on the formation of the new cabinet and the allocation of ministerial portfolios.
Early reports suggest that the JDU and BJP may receive an equal number of ministries in the upcoming government. Meanwhile, both parties are also pushing for the crucial post of Assembly Speaker, which has become a key point in the negotiations. To finalize these matters, senior leaders from both sides will gather in Delhi today.
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From the JDU quota, Working President Sanjay Kumar Jha and Union Minister Lalan Singh left Patna for Delhi late last night. On Tuesday, both leaders are expected to meet the Union Home Minister as part of the ongoing discussions.
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BJP and JDU Push for Speaker Post and Key Ministries
Both parties are not only eyeing the Speaker’s post but are also pushing for important ministries in the new Bihar government. The BJP is firm on keeping the Speaker’s position and discussed the matter late into Monday night in Patna. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is also holding talks with Chirag Paswan, Jitan Ram Manjhi, and Upendra Kushwaha, and sources say a deal has been reached with these allies on government formation.
Pradhan is in constant touch with the smaller parties to finalise the power-sharing formula. Meanwhile, separate legislative party meetings of the BJP and JDU have been scheduled for Wednesday, November 19. After these, the NDA legislative party will also meet the same day. The swearing-in ceremony is set for November 20 at Gandhi Maidan in Patna.
Speaker's post changed multiple times
The Speaker’s post has changed hands three times in the current Assembly. At present, the position is held by BJP leader Nand Kishore Yadav. Earlier, during the JDU-RJD alliance, Awadh Bihari Chaudhary of the RJD served as Speaker, and before him, Vijay Sinha from the BJP held the post. Prior to 2020, the Speaker’s chair traditionally belonged to Nitish Kumar’s JDU.
In situations where MLAs shift sides or the government has a slim majority, the Speaker’s role becomes crucial. But when the government is stable, the post is often used to accommodate a senior leader within the alliance.