The new government is likely to be sworn in on November 20 at Patna's Gandhi Maidan. (Image: X)
The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has moved into the final stages of forming Bihar's new government, with intense negotiations focusing on the distribution of powerful ministerial positions. A clear formula is emerging as the coalition works to allocate posts fairly among its partners ahead of a swearing-in ceremony expected before November 22.
According to leaders within the coalition, the alliance is operating on a principle of "one ministerial post for every six MLAs." This formula is designed to ensure balanced representation among the NDA's constituent parties. The constitutional cap for the Bihar cabinet is 36 ministers, including the chief minister. Under the proposed distribution, the smaller allies—Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) and Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) or HAM(S)—are likely to get one ministerial slot each. The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), with its 19 MLAs, is set to receive three berths. The remaining 30 to 31 posts will be divided between the two largest partners, the BJP and the JD(U).
While the alliance has not made a formal announcement, all indications point toward incumbent Nitish Kumar continuing at the helm. Top JD(U) leaders say Kumar is likely to stay on as chief minister, a view also backed by LJP(RV) chief Chirag Paswan. The final call will be made at the joint NDA legislature party meeting on Monday and Tuesday, where MLAs will choose their leader.
The process is moving swiftly to meet the November 22 deadline, when the current assembly's term ends. The last cabinet meeting of the present government is set for Monday, after which Nitish Kumar will meet the Governor to formally submit his resignation. This will trigger the process for forming the new government. Senior leaders say the new cabinet could be sworn in as early as November 20. Preparations have begun, and the Patna district administration has shut Gandhi Maidan from November 17–20, strongly hinting that it will host the ceremony.
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Beyond ministerial berths, the allocation of the Speaker's post is a significant decision. In keeping with past practice, the BJP is expected to take this crucial position. The upcoming cabinet should offer a mix of veterans and new faces. While most allies are engaged in negotiations, HAM(S) founder Jitan Ram Manjhi has stated his party has "never demanded" ministerial berths, maintaining a stance of not pressuring the coalition.
