Patna: In a strategic move, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has solidified its position within Bihar's National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government by securing the Speaker's post in the state assembly, following its recent acquisition of the crucial Home Department. This development occurs against a backdrop of shifting political dynamics in Bihar, increasing the significance of the Speaker's office.

Days after the BJP took control of the Home Department, which Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had held for nearly two decades, the party also secured the position of Speaker of the Bihar assembly on Tuesday. Veteran BJP leader Prem Kumar was unanimously elected as Speaker. Pro-tem Speaker Narendra Narayan Yadav announced that Prem Kumar was the only candidate nominated for the position. Kumar's election marks the first time since 2015 that the Speaker has been elected unanimously.

Political observers had anticipated that the Speaker's post would go to the Janata Dal (United). This expectation was fueled by the JD(U)'s concession of the Home Department to the BJP. However, the BJP's Prem Kumar succeeded his party colleague Nand Kishore Yadav as Speaker.

Prem Kumar, a nine-term MLA from Gaya, has continuously won his seat since 1990. The 70-year-old leader has held various ministerial positions and also served as the Leader of the Opposition. Following his election, Kumar emphasized the importance of constructive debate in the House to contribute to Bihar's progress. He also announced that the election for the Deputy Speaker position would be held on December 4. According to a JD(U) leader, that position is expected to be filled by a member of the JD(U).

The BJP's move to secure both the Home Department and the Speaker's position is seen as a strategic assertion of its dominance within the NDA government. With 89 seats, the BJP now holds the largest share of ministries in the Bihar cabinet. The Home Department is now helmed by Samrat Choudhary, while Vijay Kumar Sinha oversees Land and Revenue, as well as Mines and Geology. Mangal Pandey is responsible for Health and Law, and Dilip Jaiswal heads the Industries Department.

Reacting to the BJP's acquisition of the Speaker's post, JD(U) minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary dismissed the notion that his party had lost the position. He stated that the JD(U) did not have claim to the Speaker's post. The JD(U) last held the Speaker's chair in 2015, when Choudhary himself occupied the post during the Grand Alliance government and continued in the role even after the alliance dissolved.

Analysts note that Bihar's political landscape has undergone several transformations in recent years, increasing the significance of the Speaker's office. The BJP's strategic gains in the government reflect its growing influence and its efforts to solidify its position in the state.