Bihar Cabinet expansion likely May 6 as CM Samrat Choudhary returns from Delhi
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary returned to Patna on Monday, 4 May after concluding a key visit to New Delhi, where he met senior leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to finalise the long-awaited Cabinet expansion in the state. According to sources, the party high command has given its final approval to the list of ministers, with the swearing-in ceremony now likely on 6 May.
Key Meetings in Delhi
During his visit to the national capital, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary held meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among other senior alliance leaders. These discussions are believed to have centred on finalising the composition of the expanded Cabinet, including decisions on caste and regional balance.
Preparations Under Way at Gandhi Maidan
Preparations for the swearing-in ceremony have already commenced at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, with stage decoration and logistical arrangements reportedly under way. A Cabinet meeting has also been scheduled for 5 pm on the same day, which is expected to serve as the first sitting of the newly constituted Council of Ministers. An official announcement, however, is still awaited.
What the Cabinet Expansion Will Reflect
Sources indicate the Cabinet formation will emphasise caste and regional balance, the inclusion of experienced leaders, the induction of new and young faces, and adequate representation for women. The expansion is expected to reflect a mix of continuity and change, aimed at strengthening governance and broadening the NDA's political outreach across Bihar.
CM Announces ₹4 Lakh Ex Gratia After Rohtas Road Tragedy
Separately, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed deep grief over a fatal road accident that claimed five lives in Rohtas district in the early hours of Monday. The incident occurred at approximately 3 am in Mathiya village under the Dinara police station area. According to officials, the victims had returned from a 'Tilak' ceremony in Lodhi village in the Chenari area. While crossing the road after alighting from a bus, a speeding container truck collided with a pickup van, subsequently hit the bus, and ran over five individuals, killing them on the spot.
The Chief Minister announced an ex gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and directed the administration to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured. He termed the incident