By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, April 15, 2026: In a historic political transition, Samrat Choudhary was sworn in as the 24th Chief Minister of Bihar at the Raj Bhavan in Patna.
He took the oath in the name of God, marking the beginning of a new political era in the state.
The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Governor Syet Ata Hasnain.
Apart from Samrat Choudhary, two Deputy Chief Ministers from JD(U):
Alongside Samrat Choudhary, senior leaders Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers, representing the Janata Dal (United) quota.
Both leaders are considered close confidants of former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and bring extensive administrative and political experience to the new government.
With Samrat Choudhary at the helm, a government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been formed in Bihar for the first time.
This transition follows Nitish Kumar’s resignation after his election to the Rajya Sabha.
Before taking the oath, Samrat Choudhary offered prayers at a Hanuman temple in Rajvanshi Nagar, reflecting a symbolic start to his tenure.
He entered active politics in 1990 and went on to become the Agriculture Minister in Bihar in 1999.
Choudhary contested from the Parbatta assembly constituency in 2000 and 2010, winning both elections.
In 2010, he was appointed Chief Whip of the Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Assembly.
Since 2018, he has emerged as a key BJP leader.
In 2019, under the leadership of Nityanand Rai, he was appointed BJP State Vice President, steadily rising to become one of the party’s most influential faces in Bihar.
Samrat Choudhary gained significant prominence when Nitish Kumar broke ties with the BJP to form a Mahagathbandhan government.
At the time, Choudhary, serving as Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, made a symbolic pledge—vowing not to remove his Muraittha (traditional turban) until Nitish Kumar was unseated as Chief Minister.
This gesture became a defining moment in his political identity.
In 2023, Samrat Choudhary was appointed BJP State President, further solidifying his leadership role.
When Nitish Kumar later returned to the NDA fold, Choudhary became Deputy Chief Minister—also taking charge of the Home Department, a first for him.
Vijay Choudhary: A trusted Lieutenant of Nitish Kumar:
Vijay Kumar Choudhary, a seasoned politician from Samastipur, expressed gratitude to Nitish Kumar, crediting him for his political rise.
He emphasized that his journey and current stature are the result of Nitish Kumar’s guidance and trust. Known for his administrative experience and clean image, Vijay Choudhary has served in multiple key roles, including as a long-time MLA and senior JD(U) leader.
Bijendra Prasad Yadav: Veteran Leader from Kosi region:
A prominent face in Bihar politics, Bijendra Prasad Yadav, is regarded as a key strategist and a strong leader from the Kosi region. Having won elections consistently since 1990, he has built a reputation as a development-oriented leader.
He played a crucial role in strengthening power infrastructure across districts like Supaul, Saharsa, and Madhepura, contributing significantly to regional development.
Balanced leadership for the new government:
The appointment of two experienced JD(U) leaders as Deputy Chief Ministers reflects the NDA’s strategy of balancing governance with experience and alliance dynamics.
With the swearing-in ceremony complete, Bihar has officially entered a new political phase under Samrat Choudhary’s leadership.
The new government now faces the challenge of maintaining development momentum while navigating the state’s evolving political landscape.
Also Read: Samrat Choudhary set to become Bihar CM, signals beginning of new era.
EOM.
