Nitish Kumar’s Cabinet Talks Hit Roadblock As JDU Resists Losing Home Affairs Control

New Delhi: As Bihar prepares for the swearing-in of the new NDA government on November twentieth, discussions over cabinet formation have sparked tension between allies JDU and BJP. Sources reveal that the major disagreement is over the Home Department, which Chief Minister Nitish Kumar currently handles and is unwilling to relinquish. BJP, the largest party with eighty-nine seats, wants a stronger hold over key portfolios.

Although cooperation appears smooth on the surface, insiders suggest silent pressure is mounting. Both parties are aware that power balance in the next government will depend heavily on who secures critical ministries. Political observers say this could set the tone for future alliance stability.

Will Speaker’s Seat Cause Clash?

Initially, reports indicated both parties were targeting the Speaker’s post, leading to concerns of open conflict within the alliance. However, latest discussions suggest that agreement may have been reached for now, and the issue is unlikely to disrupt immediate government formation. Even so, analysts point out that the Speaker plays a vital role during disqualification matters, making it strategically significant. BJP seems determined to ensure procedural control, while JDU wants long-term safety. This episode indicates that although leaders avoid public disagreement, behind-the-scenes negotiations reflect a careful battle for influence.

Can JDU Keep Home Ministry?

According to sources familiar with closed-door talks held at Amit Shah’s residence in New Delhi, JDU leaders are firm about not surrendering the Home Department. Nitish Kumar has been managing this ministry himself, citing security and governance continuity. BJP, on the other hand, feels it should be distributed fairly based on seat strength. With upcoming political challenges and scrutiny after the recent elections, both parties want to maintain a clear control line within the administration. Government insiders say that whoever handles this key ministry will steer decision-making in law and order matters.

Are New Faces Set To Rise?

Reports indicate that the next cabinet could include several fresh names from both JDU and BJP. Umesh Singh Kushwaha, who won from Mahnar and leads JDU’s state unit, is likely to join as a minister. BJP might introduce multiple new leaders as well, signaling a strategic reshuffle to balance experience and youth. Sources also suggest smaller allies including HAM and RLMD may receive one seat each, while LJP could secure three positions. While JDU expects to repeat most of its current ministers, BJP is reportedly working on stronger structural adjustments.

Will Alliance Unity Remain Intact?

Although leaders publicly insist cooperation is intact, political experts believe friction could escalate once governance begins. The cabinet formation process has already exposed ideological differences between allies. BJP, having the highest seat count, expects increased decision-making authority, but JDU emphasizes legacy leadership under Nitish Kumar. With national leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh arriving in Patna for the ceremony, the central leadership hopes to demonstrate unity. However, internal calculations suggest a cautious partnership rather than absolute harmony.

Who Shapes Bihar’s Future Direction?

While cabinet seats are being sorted, party sources hint the focus may shift towards administrative stability in the coming months. There is speculation that Nitish Kumar’s control over law and governance elements will continue, giving JDU a deeper grip despite BJP’s numerical advantage. Meanwhile, discussions also involved choosing the assembly Speaker candidate, which may influence legislative strategy throughout the tenure. The formation talks are being seen as a prelude to broader political contests ahead.

Will Power Equation Shift After Oath?

As preparations continue for the swearing-in ceremony, both allies are expected to finalize ministry allocations soon. Amit Shah and senior leadership are overseeing negotiations to ensure a peaceful resolution. Although formal disagreement has not surfaced publicly, political commentators believe that silent power struggles may intensify during governance. The outcome of these talks could influence Bihar’s policy direction and alliance dynamics. All eyes now remain on which portfolios ultimately go to whom, and whether this marks stability or signals tension beneath the surface.