By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: A significant shift is expected in Bihar’s political landscape as speculation arises regarding the expansion of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar cabinet after Makar Sankranti (15 January). Sources indicate that the cabinet reshuffle could be completed by 30 January, ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
At present, Nitish Kumar’s cabinet comprises 30 ministers, including the Chief Minister himself and two Deputy Chief Ministers. However, six ministerial positions remain vacant, sparking widespread anticipation about new appointments. Reports suggest that four fresh faces from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are likely to join the cabinet, and departments currently managed by BJP ministers with multiple portfolios will be redistributed among the newcomers.
Priority to MLAs from Key Regions
According to media sources, legislators from Patna, Tirhut, and Saran divisions are expected to be prioritised in this expansion. Currently, the cabinet includes 15 BJP ministers, alongside representatives from smaller parties, such as Santosh Kumar Suman from HAM and independent MLA Sumit Kumar Singh.
The Bihar Legislative Assembly allows for a maximum of 36 ministers in the state cabinet, leaving room for six more appointments. The reshuffle is seen as a strategic move ahead of the elections, aiming to consolidate the ruling coalition’s position and address regional representation.
All eyes are now on the timeline and composition of the cabinet expansion, which is set to significantly impact the state’s political dynamics.
