Patna— Samrat Choudhary was on Tuesday elected as the Leader of the BJP Legislative Party in Bihar, clearing the path for his elevation as Chief Minister following the resignation of Nitish Kumar.
Nitish Kumar, who served as Chief Minister for over 21 years across multiple terms, stepped down earlier in the day. His resignation was accepted by Governor Syed Ata Hasnain.
With this development, Choudhary is set to become the first Chief Minister from the Bharatiya Janata Party in Bihar. His elevation marks a significant political shift in the state’s leadership within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
BJP ally Upendra Kushwaha congratulated Choudhary on social media, calling it a “new responsibility” and expressing support for the leadership transition.
In a detailed statement following his resignation, Nitish Kumar reflected on his tenure since 2005, highlighting achievements in governance, infrastructure, education, healthcare and social welfare. He credited the NDA government with ensuring development across communities, including minorities, backward classes, Dalits and youth.
Kumar also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said the incoming government would have his full support and guidance. He voiced confidence that Bihar would continue on a path of progress under the new leadership.
The transition signals a new political phase in Bihar, with the BJP taking direct leadership of the state government for the first time.