Bihar Council: Nishant Kumar Makes Debut Speech on His Birthday, Invokes Nitish's Legacy

Patna: The monsoon session of the Bihar legislature opened today amid the usual opposition uproar over the NEET paper leak, the Bharat Tiwari matter, and rising prices. But the day belonged to Health Minister Nishant Kumar, who turned 45 today and used the occasion to deliver his first-ever address in the Legislative Council.

What happened when Nishant Kumar rose to speak?

Members of the House greeted him with birthday wishes as soon as he entered. When his turn came to address the Council, he stood up in a manner strikingly reminiscent of his father, Nitish Kumar. There was a small hiccup, being his first day, the microphone wasn't within easy reach, and his voice didn't carry at first. A fellow member nearby quickly adjusted the mic for him, after which he was able to continue.

What did Nishant say in his first speech?

He spoke for roughly two and a half to three minutes. He opened with an apology, saying it was his first day in the House and asking members to forgive him if he made any mistakes. He then thanked everyone warmly for the birthday wishes he'd received.

Before he even reached his seat, Council Chairman Awadhesh Narayan Singh, state minister Ashok Chaudhary, and RJD's senior leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui, among others, had already wished him on his birthday.

Did he talk about carrying forward Nitish Kumar's work?

This formed the core of his address. He said the work done during his father's tenure as Chief Minister must continue, describing politics as an important medium for social change. He appealed to the government and its allies to stay united in taking that work forward, and specifically urged young party workers to carry on the legacy Nitish Kumar has built, whether inside the House or outside it.

What did he say about the current government and central leadership?

Nishant said that the government led by Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary is functioning in line with the style and policies of the Nitish-led government. He noted that although his father has chosen to move to the Rajya Sabha, his blessings and guidance remain with everyone. He added that the NDA government continues to receive guidance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and support from the Centre.