Nishant Kumar at JD(U) office. File photo
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: On Wednesday, Samrat Choudhary assumed charge of Bihar, replacing Nitish Kumar. However, Nishant Kumar, son of JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar, did not join the government, despite speculation that he would be appointed Deputy Chief Minister. Nishant has now responded publicly for the first time, stating that his focus will remain on strengthening the party and its organisation.
When asked about public expectations for him to take on a governmental role, Nishant said he would work towards consolidating the party and the alliance. “I will strive to strengthen the Janata Dal (United) and take forward the work my father has done over the past 20 years to every section of society. I will also try to fulfil his unfinished vision, ensuring that the people’s trust and blessings remain intact,” he said.
During the interaction, Nishant congratulated Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, describing him as an elder brother figure. He expressed confidence that Choudhary would perform well and lead Bihar towards progress. He added that all leaders would work collectively under his leadership, while former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar would continue to guide the government.
“I extend my congratulations and best wishes to my elder brother, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary. I also congratulate Deputy Chief Ministers Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav. I am hopeful that under his leadership, Bihar will move on a new path of development. The government is led by the National Democratic Alliance, and we will all work together under his leadership, with guidance from both myself and my father, Nitish Kumar,” Nishant said.
In place of Nishant Kumar, the Janata Dal (United) has appointed two Deputy Chief Ministers alongside Samrat Choudhary — Vijay Kumar Choudhary, MLA from Sarairanjan, and Bijendra Prasad Yadav, MLA from Supaul. Both are considered close and trusted associates of Nitish Kumar.
It is believed that the Samrat Choudhary-led Cabinet may be expanded after May 4, following the West Bengal elections. The expansion is expected to include new ministers not only from the BJP and JD(U), but also from the other alliance partners.
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