Contrary to common perception, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has maintained his momentum as head of the government. He filed nomination papers for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls and is expected to take an oath as its member likely on April 10. At present, he is touring various districts of the Kosi-Seemanchal region. He is listing out achievements made by his government in the last two decades and also not forgetting to target his ‘bete noire’ Lalu Prasad, for allegedly indulging in corruption and promoting dynasty politics. Recently, his son, Nishant Kumar, also joined JD (U) and is tipped to be made deputy CM in the new government.
Retired Army officer named new governor
Syed Ata Hasnain, a retired Indian Army officer, has been appointed as the new Governor of Bihar. He replaced Arif Mohammad Khan, who served for one year and two months. Hasnain arrived in Patna ahead of the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for March 14. The Chief Justice of the Patna High Court will administer his oath of office. Before being appointed as the governor, Hasnain had worked in the Indian Army for nearly four decades. His appointment has triggered a political debate, as the centre wants to set up an army base in the Seemanchal region, and plans are underway to drive out illegal infiltrators from the region.
Rebel Congress leaders plan protests on March 17
Rebel Congress leaders will hold demonstrations before the state party headquarters, Sadaqat Ashram, in Patna on March 17. They will also organise the “Save Bihar Congress Mahasammelan” on the same day. Former AICC member Anand Madhav stated that the Bihar Congress is going through a period of corruption, chaos, and anarchy. He alleged that the party’s support base is steadily shrinking due to certain ‘agents’ and power brokers operating within the party. He said that they will not allow Congress to be mortgaged in Bihar. Madhav, along with six other leaders, was earlier expelled for anti-party activities.
Ramashankar
Our correspondent in Bihar
ramashankar@newindianexpress.com