Amit Shah Says BJP MLAs Will Choose Bihar CM, JD(U) Responds with Confidence in Nitish’s Return

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said that the next chief minister of Bihar will be decided by the elected MLAs of the BJP after the upcoming assembly polls, signaling that the party is keeping its options open. His remarks have sparked a strong reaction from the Janata Dal (United), which confidently asserted that Nitish Kumar will once again return as chief minister.

Shah, while addressing a public meeting, avoided naming any individual as the BJP’s chief ministerial face, saying the decision would rest with the legislators chosen by the people. The statement was seen as an attempt to project the BJP as a party that values internal democracy and collective leadership, rather than relying on pre-announced faces.

However, JD(U) leaders quickly countered Shah’s comments, saying the people of Bihar know who has led the state’s development over the years. They maintained that Nitish Kumar’s administrative record and his long-standing rapport with the public give him a natural edge in the political race.

Political observers note that the BJP’s approach could be strategic, keeping flexibility for post-poll scenarios. Bihar’s political environment has often seen shifting alliances and unpredictable outcomes. By not naming a candidate, the BJP seems to be preparing for any coalition arithmetic that may emerge after the results.

For Nitish Kumar and JD(U), the latest remark serves as both a challenge and an opportunity. While the statement underscores the BJP’s independence, it also allows Nitish to rally his supporters by portraying himself as a leader who still commands respect and relevance in Bihar politics.

As the election season draws closer, the tone between the BJP and JD(U) is expected to sharpen. Voters in Bihar, especially in Tier 2 cities like Gaya, Muzaffarpur, and Bhagalpur, will be closely watching how both parties position themselves on development, governance, and leadership.

The coming months will likely determine whether Bihar’s political alliances stay fluid or settle into a familiar pattern. For now, Shah’s comment has reignited the question that dominates every Bihar election—who will sit in the chief minister’s chair next.