A major political shift is taking place in Bihar following Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s nomination for the Rajya Sabha on March 5, 2026. As the veteran leader moves to the Upper House to fulfill his wish of serving in all four legislative houses, the focus has shifted to who will take over the reins of the state. Political circles are now buzzing with discussions about a specific promise made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the 2025 election campaign, where he spoke about making certain leaders a “big man” (bada aadmi).
Who are the top contenders for the CM post?
With the Chief Minister’s chair soon to be vacant, speculation is rife regarding the new leadership. Three main names have emerged based on past promises and current political standing:
- Samrat Choudhary: Currently serving as the Deputy CM, he is a frontrunner. During a rally in Tarapur, Amit Shah had urged voters to make him win by a record margin, promising to make him a “bada aadmi” in return.
- Sunil Kumar Pintu: The BJP leader from Sitamarhi is also in the spotlight. Similar assurances were reportedly made by the Home Minister regarding his future stature.
- Nityanand Rai: The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs is also being discussed as a potential candidate to lead the state.
What is the plan for the new government?
The transition is being closely monitored by the central BJP leadership. Nitish Kumar filed his Rajya Sabha nomination in the presence of Amit Shah, signaling a coordinated move between the allies. Apart from the CM post, there is significant talk about the next generation entering the fray.
Nishant Kumar, Nitish Kumar’s son, has recently entered the political scene. Sources suggest he might be appointed as a Deputy Chief Minister in the new cabinet structure. Meanwhile, opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav has criticized these developments, labeling the transition as a move against the public mandate.
