Bihar Assembly Budget Session Begins Today; Spotlight on 13 First-Time MLAs from Magadh

Gaya: The Bihar Legislative Assembly’s Budget Session begins on Monday, February 2, with political attention firmly focused on 13 first-time legislators from the Magadh region, who have entered the House after winning Assembly elections for the first time.

Magadh region is represented by a total of 26 MLAs, but political observers believe that debut legislators often attract greater scrutiny, as public expectations from them tend to be higher. Analysts say that unlike seasoned lawmakers, the priorities, conduct, and legislative approach of new MLAs are closely watched during their first major session, especially the budget session.

Among the constituencies drawing attention are Tekari, Atri, Gurua, and Sherghati in Gaya district, all of which are represented by first-time MLAs. Gurua MLA Upendra Prasad, though new to the Assembly, has earlier served as a member of the Legislative Council.

Congress leader Mohammad Musa said that special attention would be paid to the performance of first-time MLAs from Atri, Ghosi, Sherghati, and Aurangabad, each for different political and regional reasons.

He pointed out that Atri MLA Romit Kumar and Ghosi MLA Rituraj Kumar are cousins, both young and relatively more educated than many of their peers. Both leaders defeated strong political opponents, raising expectations regarding their performance in the Assembly.

Speaking to The Times of India, Ghosi MLA Rituraj Kumar said that sudden flooding remains the most pressing concern in his constituency and expressed hope that flood control measures would be accorded priority in the budget. He added that he is closely studying other developmental issues affecting his region.

Although Romit Kumar could not be contacted, political observers recall his outspoken remarks during the inauguration of the Buddha Mahotsav, where he openly criticized administrative arrangements despite being part of the ruling alliance. Analysts believe this may indicate a more assertive and independent role for him in the Assembly.

Attention is also expected on Sherghati MLA Uday Kumar Singh, who has long been associated with the sand mining business. Environmental groups have criticized him in the past, alleging a conflict of interest between his business activities and political role. Recently, during a DISHA meeting, a Rajya Sabha MP proposed long-term regulation of sand mining, a matter that could resonate during the budget session.

Aurangabad MLA Trivikram Singh said he is yet to finalize his legislative priorities. However, political observers believe he will have to balance local political factions while also addressing perceptions of being an “outsider” in regional politics.

The budget session is also expected to witness heated discussions over the recent death of a NEET aspirant from Jehanabad district in Patna. According to Kusum Kumari, former head of the Women’s Studies Department at Magadh University, legislators from Jehanabad may raise the issue forcefully during the session.

With high public expectations, emerging leadership, and sensitive regional issues, the Bihar Assembly’s budget session is likely to be closely watched and politically eventful.