Nitish Kumar, the veteran leader of Bihar’s politics, has once again scripted a dramatic chapter by assuming the Chief Minister’s role for a record 10th time. This swift transition from resignation to oath-taking within 24 hours highlights his enduring influence in the state’s volatile political landscape. The event, marked by a grand NDA show of strength, also saw Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in attendance, underscoring national alliances.
The Resignation and Swift Return
Nitish Kumar submitted his resignation as the outgoing Chief Minister to Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Wednesday. The governor accepted it promptly but requested Kumar to serve as caretaker CM until the new government formation. This move came days after the NDA’s landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar assembly elections, where the alliance secured 202 seats. Kumar’s resignation was a procedural step to pave the way for his re-induction, reflecting the seamless internal coordination within the NDA.
Accompanied by key allies like Union Minister Chirag Paswan, RLM chief Upendra Kushwaha, and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, Kumar visited Raj Bhavan to stake his claim. The NDA legislature party had earlier elected him as their leader unanimously, with support from JD(U), BJP, LJP(RV), HAM, and RLM MLAs. This 24-hour turnaround from resignation to re-appointment exemplifies Kumar’s political acumen, avoiding any governance vacuum in Bihar.
Oath Ceremony at Gandhi Maidan
The swearing-in unfolded on Thursday at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan, transforming the venue into a massive political spectacle. Preparations included elaborate stages, pandals for VIPs, and stringent security for an expected crowd of over three lakh people. Nitish Kumar took the oath amid cheers, marking his 10th tenure as Bihar’s CM since his first in 2000. The ceremony highlighted the NDA’s unity, with the new cabinet set to feature 16 ministers from BJP and 14 from JD(U).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several chief ministers from BJP-ruled states graced the occasion, reinforcing the alliance’s national footprint. The event was not just a local affair but a demonstration of NDA’s sweeping electoral success across India. Kumar’s oath symbolized continuity in Bihar’s development agenda, with promises of stability and progress.
Chandrababu Naidu’s Presence and Remarks
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu attended the ceremony alongside his son, IT & HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, adding a southern dimension to the northern political gathering. Naidu congratulated Kumar and the people of Bihar, emphasizing the state’s pivotal role in India’s growth trajectory. He praised Kumar’s extensive experience, stating that Bihar would develop rapidly under his leadership in this “India’s century.”
Naidu’s interactions with leaders like Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis underscored NDA’s inter-state coordination. In his post on X, Naidu expressed hopes for people-centric governance from the new Bihar cabinet. Lokesh echoed these sentiments, calling it an honor to witness the event and expressing confidence in Bihar’s progress toward prosperity. Naidu also noted the NDA’s ongoing electoral dominance, predicting its continuation.
Nitish Kumar’s Political Legacy
Nitish Kumar’s journey to this 10th term is a testament to his resilience in Bihar’s turbulent politics. Often dubbed “Sushasan Babu” for his focus on good governance, law and order, and development, Kumar has navigated multiple alliances without losing power. His party, JD(U), won 85 seats in the 2025 elections, closely followed by BJP’s 89, while allies like LJP(RV) provided crucial support. This mandate is the NDA’s strongest in decades, reversing past setbacks like the 43 seats JD(U) managed in 2020.
From his brief seven-day stint as CM in 2000—cut short due to political pressures—to flipping alliances between NDA and RJD, Kumar has mastered adaptation. Critics point to his frequent shifts, but supporters credit them for Bihar’s stability. At 74, this election was a make-or-break for him against younger rivals like Tejashwi Yadav and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj. Yet, Kumar emerged stronger, proving his indispensability.
Challenges and Future Agenda
Despite the victory, anti-incumbency and alliance dynamics pose challenges. The equal seat-sharing with BJP signals a shift from JD(U)’s traditional dominance, requiring careful power balance. Issues like policy stagnation and political fatigue were debated during the polls, but Kumar’s reputation for infrastructure and social welfare initiatives swayed voters. The new government aims to accelerate Bihar’s development, focusing on education, employment, and connectivity.
With NDA’s central support, Bihar could see enhanced funding for projects. Kumar’s warning pre-election about potential national ripples from a Bihar defeat highlighted his leverage in Delhi’s equations. As he begins his 10th term, expectations are high for sustained “sushasan” amid evolving opposition strategies.
Broader Implications for Bihar Politics
This dramatic resurgence reinforces Nitish Kumar’s status as Bihar’s “undisputed king” in a game of thrones-like scenario. The 24-hour drama from resignation to oath not only captivated the state but also signaled NDA’s robust health nationally. Chandrababu Naidu’s attendance bridged regional NDA bonds, hinting at collaborative governance models.
Bihar’s voters have repeatedly endorsed Kumar’s blend of experience and pragmatism, rejecting alternatives. As the state moves forward, this term could address longstanding issues like migration and economic disparity, positioning Bihar as a key player in India’s narrative.
