Bachaul’s Surprise Proposal Sparks Political Buzz in Bihar
On Tuesday, BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul triggered significant political debate after proposing that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar be considered for the post of Vice President of India. His suggestion followed the unexpected resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who cited health concerns under Article 67(a) of the Constitution.
Speaking outside the Bihar Legislative Assembly before the session commenced, Bachaul told reporters, “What could be more ideal than Nitish Kumar becoming Vice President? It would be a matter of great pride for Bihar and for India.” His comments added fuel to growing speculation about possible changes within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
Dhankhar’s Exit Creates a Power Vacuum
The resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar has thrown open the vice presidential race, with political circles abuzz about who could fill the vacancy. The timing of Bachaul’s statement has raised eyebrows, especially since it suggests the NDA may be considering elevating Nitish Kumar—one of the longest-serving Chief Ministers of Bihar—to a constitutional post at the national level.
While Nitish Kumar, 74, has so far declined to comment on the matter, this is not the first time national roles have been proposed for him. In earlier years, Union Minister Ashwini Kumar Choubey had floated Kumar’s name for Deputy Prime Minister—another proposal that was met with silence from the CM.
Strategic Implications in Bihar’s Caste Politics
Political analysts point out that Kumar’s popularity among the Extremely Backward Castes (EBCs) and non-Yadav OBCs makes him a critical player in Bihar’s caste-driven political landscape. His presence in the Chief Minister’s seat continues to serve the NDA’s electoral strategy, particularly in the run-up to the 2025 Bihar elections.
Despite this, the BJP has consistently stated that Kumar will remain their face for the CM post. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal have reiterated the party’s firm support for Kumar’s leadership, downplaying any internal shift. However, Bachaul’s endorsement of Kumar for Vice President has sparked fresh speculation over the NDA’s long-term plans.
Social Media Abuzz with Theories and Speculations
Online discussions have intensified in the wake of Bachaul’s remarks. Some X (formerly Twitter) users have speculated that promoting Nitish Kumar to the Vice Presidency could pave the way for his son, Nishant Kumar, to assume a more prominent political role—possibly as Deputy CM. Others argue that such a move might allow the BJP to finally install its own Chief Minister in Bihar, ending years of alliance dependency.
While none of these claims have been officially confirmed, the political maneuvering reflects the underlying tension and realignment possibilities in the NDA as the 2025 state elections draw near.
Vice Presidential Poll Likely Within 6 Months
As per Article 68(2) of the Constitution, the Election Commission is expected to hold a vice presidential election within six months. Until then, political speculation is likely to continue, with the Bihar BJP juggling alliance sensitivities and strategic ambitions.
Whether Bachaul’s proposal is part of a larger tactical reshuffle or a personal political statement remains unclear. But one thing is certain: it has added yet another layer of complexity to the evolving NDA strategy in Bihar and at the national level.