PATNA, May 2: With the completion of the West Bengal elections, focus has now shifted to a possible cabinet expansion in Bihar, where the first BJP-led government was formed on April 15, with Samrat Choudhary sworn in as the state’s first Chief Minister from the BJP.
Political activity in the state has intensified, with Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary leaving for Delhi on Saturday night. His visit is being linked to the anticipated cabinet expansion, fuelling speculation in political circles. He is expected to meet the BJP’s top leadership, including BJP National President Nitin Nabin and union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Before leaving for Delhi, the Chief Minister met former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at his new residence at 7 Circular Road in Patna, where Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary was already present. The leaders held discussions for about half an hour.
The meeting between Samrat Choudhary and Nitish Kumar is being seen as significant ahead of the cabinet expansion. Sources said the two discussed the outline of the new cabinet, which may now be finalised in consultations with the central leadership in Delhi.
Earlier in the day, Nitish Kumar visited the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Bijendra Yadav. He also met former minister Ashok Choudhary. These back-to-back meetings have triggered speculation in Patna’s political circles.
It is believed that the issue of cabinet expansion figured prominently in these discussions. According to sources, a 15-15 formula between JD(U) and the BJP may be implemented in the new cabinet. However, some positions may be kept vacant to maintain future political balance.
Allies such as LJP (R), HAM, and RLM are also expected to get representation in the new cabinet as part of efforts to maintain coalition balance.
(UNI)
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