BJP vs JD(U) Bihar CM Decision: Bihar is witnessing unusual things as Election Commission trends show the BJP emerging as the largest party in the assembly elections. However, what is surprising many is a now-deleted social media post by the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) claiming Nitish Kumar as Bihar’s next Chief Minister. The post published on X on Friday and quickly removed has reignited speculation about the veteran leader’s political future.
Before Polls BJP Supported Nitish Kumar As Bihar CM
Before the elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had emphasized that it was contesting the polls under Nitish Kumar’s leadership but had not formally declared whether the JD(U) supremo, aiming for a record 10th term, would retain the top post.
“Unprecedented and unmatched. Nitish Kumar was, is, and will remain the Chief Minister of Bihar,” the JD(U) tweeted before deleting the message within minutes.
Adding to the buzz, posters and billboards declaring “25 se 30, phir se Nitish” appeared across Patna on Friday, signalling strong support for the 74-year-old leader.
BJP’s Strong Performance Fuels Speculation On Next Chief Minister
The BJP’s strong showing in the elections, emerging as the single largest party, has intensified speculation over the leadership question. While the JD(U) delivered a solid performance, it could not match the BJP’s seat tally, prompting discussions about possible post-poll arrangements.
Political observers note that the BJP may consider placing one of its leaders as Chief Minister, following a precedent similar to Maharashtra in 2024. In that state, despite contesting the polls with Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde as the CM face, the party ultimately installed Devendra Fadnavis after asserting its dominance.
In Bihar, Samrat Chaudhary, the Deputy Chief Minister and opposition leader, is being discussed as a potential contender for the top post. Chaudhary is recognised for his organisational acumen and extensive experience in state politics.
Zubair Amin is a Senior Journalist at NewsX with over seven years of experience in reporting and editorial work. He has written for leading national and international publications, including Foreign Policy Magazine, Al Jazeera, The Economic Times, The Indian Express, The Wire, Article 14, Mongabay, News9, among others. His primary focus is on international affairs, with a strong interest in US politics and policy. He also writes on West Asia, Indian polity, and constitutional issues. Zubair tweets at zubaiyr.amin