In a historic political shift, Samrat Choudhary took oath as the 21st Chief Minister of Bihar on Wednesday, marking the end of Nitish Kumar’s long and influential reign. The ceremony was held at Raj Bhavan and attended by top BJP leaders, as Choudhary officially replaced Kumar, who resigned on April 14 to vacate the post for a new government led by the BJP.
The swearing-in ceremony, officiated by Governor Syed Ata Hasnain, marks a turning point in Bihar’s political landscape. Choudhary, who served as Deputy Chief Minister in the outgoing government, has now taken the reins of power in the state, making his elevation one of the most significant political events in Bihar’s recent history.
Samrat Choudhary’s rise comes at a time when the BJP is seizing control of Bihar for the first time. He is only the second leader from the influential Koeri community to become Bihar’s Chief Minister, following in the footsteps of Satish Prasad Singh, who held the post for just five days in 1968.
Choudhary’s elevation is notable not only for its political significance but also for the caste dimensions it carries in Bihar’s complex political scenario. He joins the ranks of leaders like Bharat Ratna awardee Karpoori Thakur, who, like Choudhary, served as both Deputy Chief Minister and Chief Minister.
A political veteran, Samrat Choudhary began his career in 1999 when he was inducted into the RJD government. After a brief interruption in his political trajectory, he joined the BJP in 2017, marking a major shift that would define his rise. His Koeri OBC base has provided crucial support, enabling him to rise swiftly through the BJP ranks.
Choudhary’s entry into power has also been framed by his previous criticism of Nitish Kumar, whom he has since allied with under the NDA. His ascension as CM marks the culmination of years of political maneuvering and a symbolic moment, as he had vowed to remove his trademark turban only once he succeeded in unseating Kumar.
As Bihar’s new Chief Minister, Samrat Choudhary faces the challenge of consolidating power and steering the state forward. His leadership comes at a time when political realignments are ongoing, and the BJP is eager to strengthen its influence in Bihar's governance. With backing from senior leaders such as Amit Shah, Choudhary's position is poised to reshape the state's future.
Nitish Kumar’s resignation marks the end of a chapter for Bihar. Kumar, who served as the state’s Chief Minister for a record ten terms since 2005, has been known for his ability to adapt to shifting political currents, switching alliances between the NDA and Mahagathbandhan. His tenure, known for welfare schemes like bicycle distribution for schoolgirls and reservations for women, was often marked by frequent political shifts. Despite his pragmatic governance, Kumar faced criticism for his changing allegiances, leading to his eventual exit. The arrival of Samrat Choudhary as the new Chief Minister of Bihar signifies a new phase for the state, with the BJP taking direct control and the political landscape in flux. The coming months will determine the direction of the state under his leadership.
