Samrat Choudhary Will Be Bihar's New CM: NDA Finalizes Leadership Following Nitish Kumar's Resignation
A major shift has been witnessed in the politics of Bihar. Nitish Kumar, who served as Chief Minister for a long tenure, tendered his resignation to the Governor on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, following his final cabinet meeting.
Immediately thereafter, a meeting of the NDA legislative party was held, during which Samrat Choudhary was unanimously elected as its leader. With this decision, it is now virtually certain that Samrat Choudhary will be the one to take the oath as Bihar's next Chief Minister. It is expected that the swearing-in ceremony will be held on Wednesday at the Lok Bhawan in Patna.
Following Nitish Kumar's resignation, the NDA reposed its faith in new leadership, and a consensus was reached on Samrat Choudhary's name.
Speculation regarding a change in leadership had been rife in Bihar for quite some time. The situation became clear on Tuesday after Nitish Kumar stepped down from the post of CM. During the NDA meeting, all constituent parties unanimously endorsed Samrat Choudhary's name. This decision is being viewed as a signal of a new direction in Bihar's politics. The party believes that this new leadership will strengthen both the organizational structure and the government.
Key Meeting Held in the Presence of Central Leadership
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan arrived in Patna as an observer to finalize the process of selecting the new leadership. Several prominent leaders associated with the party organization were present during this time, and all of them unanimously expressed their consensus on Samrat Choudhary's name. This meeting is considered to be of immense significance in the context of Bihar's politics, as it also offers indications regarding the future strategy.
A Journey That Began with Student Politics; Gained Extensive Political Experience
Samrat Choudhary's political journey spans nearly three decades. He stepped into active politics around 1990 and gradually carved out a strong identity for himself within state politics. Initially associated with the RJD, he went on to serve as the Agriculture Minister in the Rabri Devi government in 1999. Subsequently, he gained extensive experience working with various political parties and further consolidated his hold at the organizational level.
A Journey from JDU to BJP: Held Key Responsibilities
Throughout his political career, Samrat Chaudhary has held several significant positions. In 2014, he joined the JDU and became a minister in the Jitan Ram Manjhi government. Subsequently, in 2018, he joined the BJP fold. He has served as the State President of the Bihar BJP and also discharged his duties as the Minister for Panchayati Raj in the NDA government. Currently, he holds the portfolios of Deputy Chief Minister and the Department of Home Affairs.
A New Chapter Begins in Bihar Politics
With Samrat Chaudhary assuming the role of Chief Minister, a new chapter is widely believed to have begun in the politics of Bihar. Political analysts opine that, under this new leadership, one may witness changes in the government's priorities and working style. Particular emphasis is expected to be placed on development, law and order, and strengthening the party organization. All eyes are now fixed on the swearing-in ceremony and the formation of the new cabinet.