Patna, Sep 21 (IANS) Bihar Legislative Council Chairman Awadhesh Narayan Singh has resigned from his post, triggering fresh speculation over the distribution of key constitutional positions within the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state.
With the BJP leader stepping down, the Legislative Council Chairman’s post is now expected to go to the Janata Dal (United), according to reports.
The name of incumbent Deputy Chairman Prof. Dr Ramvachan Rai has emerged as the leading contender for the position.
The development comes amid discussions over a fresh power-sharing arrangement between the BJP and JD(U) following the formation of the new government in Bihar.
The BJP currently holds the Chief Minister’s post and the Speaker’s position in the Legislative Assembly, while it has also held the Legislative Council Chairman’s post.
Against this backdrop, the JD(U) had reportedly been seeking the Council Chairman’s position as part of the broader distribution of key posts between the two NDA allies.
Reports indicate that the BJP and JD(U) leadership have reached an understanding on the issue.
According to reports, the BJP leadership asked Awadhesh Narayan Singh to step down as Chairman, following which he tendered his resignation.
The formal process for selecting a new Chairman is expected to follow.
In the interim, Ramvachan Rai is likely to take charge as Acting Chairman, as he is the incumbent Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Council.
Rai was elected unopposed as Deputy Chairman in July 2024 and has been associated with the Council for several years.
The possible change is being viewed as part of a broader effort to rebalance the distribution of important constitutional posts between the BJP and JD(U).
With the BJP holding the Chief Minister and Assembly Speaker positions, the Council Chairman’s post could provide the JD(U) with a key constitutional position within the NDA arrangement.
The development has also renewed discussion over the internal power equation between the two principal NDA allies in Bihar.
While the reported understanding between the BJP and JD(U) could pave the way for a change in the Council’s leadership, the formal appointment of a new Chairman is yet to be completed.
–IANS
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