Janata Dal-United (JD(U)) leader Nitish Kumar has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for an unprecedented ninth time. The oath-taking ceremony took place at Raj Bhawan in Patna, marking Kumar's return to power following the severance of ties with the combined opposition's INDIA alliance.

Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, both affiliated with the BJP, were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. Following days of speculation, Nitish Kumar stepped down from the position of Chief Minister of Bihar.

This resignation occurred within 18 months of the JD(U) leader parting ways with the BJP and aligning with the RJD. Within hours, he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the ninth time, establishing a new state government with the support of the BJP.

After taking the oath, the Bihar Chief Minister affirmed, "We are going to stay together now." Nitish Kumar, addressing reporters, mentioned his prior association with the NDA and expressed a commitment to their current unity. He stated that eight ministers took the oath, and others would follow soon, with Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers.

Responding to Tejashwi Yadav's statement predicting the end of JD(U)in 2024, Kumar asserted that his party would focus on the development and progress of the state. "We are dedicated to the development and progress of Bihar. Our focus remains on these goals. Tejashwi was not engaged in constructive actions. Having returned to the NDA, there is no consideration of moving elsewhere," he stated.

Reacting to ally Nitish Kumar's departure from the 'INDIA' alliance, Tejashwi Yadav, the outgoing deputy CM of the state, accused Kumar of shattering the hopes of the people by switching sides. Tejashwi Yadav, a leader of the RJD and son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, emphasized their accomplishments, claiming credit for job creation and introducing policies in tourism, IT, and sports.

He hinted at further political developments in the state ahead of the 2024 General Elections, stating that 'the game is yet to begin.' Referring to Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM,' Yadav confidently predicted the demise of the JDU party in 2024, expressing gratitude to the BJP for welcoming them into their alliance.

Despite numerous changes in alliances, Nitish Kumar has successfully maintained his position as Chief Minister."I have resigned as the Chief Minister today and have requested the Governor to dissolve this government. Party leaders provided advice, and considering the unfavorable situation, we have severed ties," Nitish Kumar informed reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.

Image source: India Today