Patna: The political stage in Bihar is set for a carefully calibrated government formation as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) finalizes ministerial allocations. In a surprising departure from previous arrangements, the BJP and Janata Dal (United) are reportedly poised to receive equal numbers of cabinet positions, while the Chirag Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) may be allotted two ministries.
The preliminary formula, according to party insiders, reflects the close contest in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly elections. Both the BJP and JD(U) contested 101 constituencies each, emerging nearly neck-and-neck in seat count, with the BJP winning 89 and the JD(U) securing 85. In contrast to the 2020 configuration, when the BJP dominated ministerial berths with 22 against JD(U)’s 12, the 2025 tally has prompted discussions on parity between the alliance’s principal partners.
“This is the formula on the table and consultations are ongoing. Portfolio distributions could still see major adjustments,” said a senior BJP source. The final list of ministers is expected after the newly elected JD(U) legislators meet in Patna, following which Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is likely to resign before the Governor, enabling the constitution of the new government. The BJP Legislature Party is expected to convene shortly thereafter, with the swearing-in ceremony tentatively scheduled for Wednesday or Thursday.
Smaller NDA allies are also expected to be accommodated. The Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM), led by Upendra Kushwaha, and the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAM-S) under Jitan Ram Manjhi are anticipated to receive one ministry each, reflecting their role in sustaining alliance cohesion.
Insiders say that while Nitish Kumar is widely expected to continue as Chief Minister, deliberations on the Deputy Chief Minister posts remain unresolved. Outgoing Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary has faced allegations of irregularities in election affidavits, yet his personal electoral success and the NDA’s decisive mandate have bolstered arguments in favor of his retention.
The NDA’s strategy underscores a balancing act aimed at consolidating power while honoring electoral realities. Equal ministerial representation for the BJP and JD(U) signals a notable shift in intra-alliance dynamics, while granting two ministries to Chirag Paswan’s LJP (RV) reinforces the smaller party’s bargaining power. Analysts note that such arrangements reflect the NDA’s intent to maintain stability and inclusivity as it prepares to govern Bihar in the next legislative term, which officially begins as the 17th Assembly’s tenure expires on November 22, 2025.
As political negotiations reach their final stages, all eyes are on the coming days for formal announcements and the seating of Bihar’s new cabinet a government structured not only on numbers but also on strategic alliance management, regional representation, and electoral considerations.