Bihar Politics: Nitish Kumar Asserts Dominance, Silences Opposition with Strategic Moves

Patna: Taking oath as Bihar’s Chief Minister for the tenth time, Nitish Kumar continues to operate in a style distinct from other political leaders. Following the party’s victory in the 2025 assembly elections, Kumar has made several strategic decisions that have left not only the opposition but even allies in the ruling coalition surprised. Analysts say his approach has hit two targets with one arrow—asserting control over the government while subtly managing coalition partners.

Formation of Three New Departments
In a move that surprised many, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar created three new departments, keeping two critical portfolios—Civil Aviation and Higher Education—under his control. Only one department, Employment and Skill Development, was allocated to the BJP, while key departments remained with Kumar’s party. By doing so, he clearly signaled that he holds the reins of power in Bihar.

Departments Linked Directly to Public Welfare Given to BJP
Kumar also ensured that departments directly interacting with the public, such as Revenue, Land, Home, and Health, were allocated to the BJP. This strategy ensures that any administrative shortcomings would be attributed to the BJP, while successes would strengthen Kumar’s leadership. Recent complaints received during welfare camps have already put BJP ministers and officers in a challenging position, particularly in the Revenue and Health departments.

Home Department as a Double-Edged Sword
Though BJP claims to have secured the Home Department after 20 years, administrative sources reveal it has become a political trap. Rising crime could reflect poorly on the BJP, while any success will credit the Nitish-led government. By controlling general administration personally, Kumar retains ultimate authority over postings, transfers, promotions, and departmental appointments, effectively controlling the bureaucracy.

Indirect Control Over BJP Departments
Even in departments held by the BJP, Kumar maintains influence through bureaucratic channels. BJP ministers have openly acknowledged that Nitish exercises significant control over their departments via administrative secretaries. This careful blend of political and bureaucratic management exemplifies Nitish Kumar’s unique style of governance, combining strategic allocation of portfolios with tight oversight of administrative machinery.

Conclusion
Nitish Kumar’s approach demonstrates a calculated balance of coalition politics and administrative control, ensuring that the real levers of power remain firmly in his hands, while allowing allies to manage public-facing departments—effectively keeping the opposition and partners on edge.