The formation of Nitish Kumar’s new Bihar cabinet is entering a critical phase, with key alliance partners, the Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party, engaged in robust negotiations over ministerial responsibilities. The swearing-in ceremony is set for Thursday morning at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan, and preparations are underway. Prominent national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, are expected to attend, underscoring the significance of the event. Amit Shah’s arrival in Patna on Wednesday evening is a key precursor to finalizing the guest list and cabinet composition. The NDA’s decisive win in the Bihar assembly elections, securing a commanding majority, sets the stage for this coalition government. The allocation of key ministries, particularly the Home portfolio, has emerged as a major point of discussion. The JD(U) previously held this crucial ministry, but the BJP is now reportedly keen on taking it over. The Education ministry is another portfolio generating discussion. The coveted Speaker’s position is also being debated, with both parties advocating for their nominees. Discussions are also focused on ensuring representation for smaller allies within the coalition, with ministerial slots being allocated based on a proportional formula. Sources suggest that while the overall alliance framework is agreed upon, the fine-tuning of specific portfolio assignments is the current focus ahead of the official commencement of Nitish Kumar’s fifth term as Chief Minister.
