Nitish Kumar Takes Rajya Sabha Oath, Signals Exit as Bihar Chief Minister Amid NDA Transition

In a significant political development, Nitish Kumar has taken oath as a Member of the Rajya Sabha, marking a pivotal shift in Bihar’s political landscape and संकेत of his imminent exit as Chief Minister. The oath was administered by C. P. Radhakrishnan, who currently serves as the Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, at Parliament House on Thursday. Kumar’s entry into the Upper House follows his unopposed election and resignation from the Bihar Legislative Council. Widely known as ‘Sushasan Babu’ for his governance-focused leadership, Nitish Kumar has served as Bihar’s Chief Minister for nine terms since 2000, earning recognition for his emphasis on infrastructure development, law and order, and administrative reforms. Speaking to reporters after the oath-taking ceremony, Kumar indicated his intent to remain in Delhi, fueling strong speculation that his resignation as Chief Minister could come within days. This transition comes in the wake of the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) victory in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, where the Bharatiya Janata Party has reportedly pushed for a leadership change. Current Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has emerged as the frontrunner to take over the top post. Sources within the alliance suggest that the new government formation is likely to be completed by mid-April, signaling a generational and strategic shift in Bihar politics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Nitish Kumar’s vast administrative experience and contributions to governance, while opposition leaders described the move as the end of Kumar’s long-standing dominance in state politics. As Bihar prepares for a leadership transition, all eyes are now on the NDA’s next move and the formal announcement of the new Chief Minister.