Bihar Politics Set for Major Cabinet Expansion Ceremony

A pivotal moment in Bihar's political history is set to unfold today with the cabinet expansion ceremony led by the BJP. Prime Minister Modi's attendance is expected to elevate the event's significance. Following the resignation of Nitish Kumar, the BJP is poised to solidify its leadership in the state. Amidst concerns over weather conditions, key political figures, including Union Ministers and JD(U) representatives, are anticipated to attend. This event marks a new chapter in Bihar's governance, with expectations of a robust cabinet composition reflecting the NDA's strength.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 11:58 IST

A New Chapter in Bihar Politics

Today marks a significant moment in Bihar's political landscape as the much-anticipated cabinet expansion of the state government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is set to take place at a grand event in Gandhi Maidan. According to sources, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to arrive at Patna Airport around 11:35 AM, from where he will travel by road to the venue. His presence is expected to elevate the importance of this historic occasion.

The cabinet expansion will occur in the presence of top leaders from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The distance from the airport to the ceremony site is approximately six kilometers.

A senior police official mentioned that the Prime Minister's convoy will take about 30 minutes to reach the event location from the airport. Barricades have been set up along the roads to allow people to greet him.

Significance of the Ceremony

The BJP views this ceremony as a significant achievement, marking its first time leading the government in Bihar. The party gained control of the state after Nitish Kumar, the national president of the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), resigned from the Chief Minister's position last month.

Sanjay Sarawagi, the president of the BJP's Bihar unit, stated, 'While this is certainly a government event, it holds special significance for the party. We are making efforts to ensure the ceremony is a grand success.' Enthusiasm among BJP workers is palpable, especially following the relatively low-key swearing-in of party leader Samrat Chaudhary as Chief Minister last month.

Weather Concerns and Attendance

However, party sources have expressed concerns regarding the intermittent rain and storms in Patna over the past few days, which could impact the ceremony.

Central Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President Nitin Naveen, and Organization General Secretary B.L. Santosh have been in Patna since Wednesday night. It is also expected that several Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled states, including Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and J.P. Nadda, will attend the event.

Potential Attendees and Political Dynamics

Nitish Kumar, along with his son Nishant Kumar, who has agreed to join the Samrat Chaudhary government, may also be present at the ceremony. Nitish Kumar, who has served as Chief Minister for the longest period, resigned to take a seat in the Rajya Sabha. His son, who has remained away from politics, has decided to enter public life at the request of JD(U) workers.

There are concerns among party workers about the future of JD(U) following the departure of its leader from power. Union Minister Chirag Paswan is also expected to attend. His party, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), previously held two ministerial positions in the Nitish cabinet but is currently awaiting representation in the new BJP-led government.

Currently, only two ministers are part of the state government—senior JD(U) leaders Vijay Kumar Chaudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav, who have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers. This shift is seen as a change in the power dynamics, as previously, Samrat Chaudhary and BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha served as Deputy Chief Ministers under Nitish Kumar.

Cabinet Composition and Future Expectations

According to the Constitution, the number of ministers in a state cabinet cannot exceed 15 percent of the total assembly members. With 243 members in the Bihar Assembly, the maximum number of ministers can be 36. However, sources indicate that there will be 31 ministers in the new cabinet.

The BJP and JD(U), which hold 174 of the 202 seats in the NDA, are expected to secure the largest share in the expanded cabinet. Additionally, parties like LJP (Ram Vilas), along with Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's party 'HAM' and former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha's National Lok Morcha (RALOMO), are hopeful for representation in line with their strength.