Speculation Rises: Who Will Nitish Kumar Choose for His Six JDU Ministerial Posts

Patna: With the NDA’s victory in Bihar, political maneuvering is already underway as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar considers expanding JDU’s strength in the Assembly. Following the recent elections, BJP and JDU won 89 and 85 seats respectively. Now, all eyes are on Nitish as six JDU ministerial positions remain vacant, sparking speculation about potential defections from smaller parties.

Targeting Smaller Parties for ‘Manpower Boost’
Sources indicate that the JDU leadership is eyeing legislators from AIMIM, BSP, IIP, and even Congress to increase their numbers. In 2020, AIMIM’s five legislators largely defected to RJD during government formation. This time, with NDA in power, there are speculations that Nitish Kumar’s team is in talks with AIMIM MLAs to bring them over to JDU, potentially equalling BJP’s strength in the House.

BSP and IIP Also in Focus
BSP and IIP each have a single MLA in the Assembly. Historical patterns suggest these MLAs are susceptible to joining other parties post-election. Efforts are reportedly underway to lure them with ministerial positions. For instance, BSP’s Satish Kumar Singh Yadav, who won from Ramgarh by a narrow margin, is believed to be among those courted. Similarly, IIP’s lone MLA, IP Gupta, is reportedly on JDU’s radar.

Congress MLAs Not Off the Table
Even Congress, with its six newly-elected MLAs, is being watched closely. Past defections and internal weaknesses make it plausible for some MLAs to switch allegiance if offered ministerial roles.

Vacant JDU Ministerial Seats
Currently, the cabinet has 14 BJP ministers and only eight from JDU, leaving six posts vacant. Political analysts suggest these positions could be used strategically to reward defectors, strengthening JDU’s legislative clout.

As the political game unfolds, Nitish Kumar’s decisions in filling these six JDU ministerial posts could significantly shape Bihar’s political landscape in the months ahead.