Nitish Kumar is set to be sworn in as chief minister for the 10th time on Thursday. In the Bihar Assembly elections, the NDA alliance led by Nitish won with a two-thirds majority. Since then, speculation had been rife about the swearing-in date. Particularly after Nitish was not seen in public on the day of the election result declaration, various theories emerged about his physical health and chief ministership. Finally, on Sunday, it was confirmed that he is set to take the oath of chief ministership for a record 10th time in electoral history. According to sources, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to arrive in Patna today. He will hold a meeting with Nitish. Last-minute discussions about cabinet formation will also take place there.
Multiple sources claim that Bihar is set to get a woman deputy chief minister this time. However, so far there are rumours that there will be two deputy CMs this time as well. The Speaker's post may go to the BJP, the single largest party. According to NDA alliance sources, in cabinet formation, regional equations will be given importance and all parties in the alliance will be given representation. The alliance's goal is to maintain coordination without allowing dominance of any single party. Two new faces may be added for ministership this time. Chirag Paswan's party may get two to three cabinet posts. Along with this, caste balance will also be maintained, according to a large section of political analysts. According to the constitution, Bihar can have a maximum of 36 ministers, including the chief minister. Sources claim that some posts may also be kept vacant. Since the BJP has emerged as the largest party this time, they are likely to get the maximum number of ministerial posts.
BJP leader Nitin Navin said that all preparations for the swearing-in have been completed. There are plans to invite the chief ministers of various states along with front-line leaders.
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While the NDA camp is busy with ministerial calculations, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav had refused on Monday itself to become the opposition leader, taking responsibility for the party's dismal defeat. Though the winning MLAs had nominated Tejashwi as the assembly leader. Tejashwi was not willing. However, due to pressure from his father, Lalu Prasad Yadav, he has to take up the responsibility of opposition leader again. Along with this, regarding sister Rohini's allegations, Tejashwi said that she should come to an open debate with me. It is not right to blame anyone without reason.