Nitish Kumar's Surprise Pick: Young Deepak Prakash's Rise in Bihar Cabinet Sparks Debate

Image Source: Internet

In a move that has left many in the Bihar political landscape surprised, Nitish Kumar's new cabinet has included Deepak Prakash, the son of Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) chief Upendra Kushwaha. As the sole minister from his party, Prakash's induction has sparked debate, particularly given that he is not an MLA or member of the Legislative Council. However, Governor Arif Mohammad Khan administered the oath of office to Prakash on Thursday. The RLM, a key ally of the NDA, had secured four seats in the assembly elections, with Prakash's induction seen as a strategic move. Interestingly, RLM chief Kushwaha's wife Snehlata, who won the Bihar polls from the Sasaram seat, was not included in the new cabinet. Prakash, who recently returned to India after completing his studies abroad, expressed his gratitude to his father for being his inspiration to join politics. With six months to secure membership in either House of the state legislature, Prakash will need to prove his eligibility to continue as a minister. The swearing-in ceremony on Thursday was attended by high-profile guests, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP chief JP Nadda. The new cabinet, led by Nitish Kumar, comprises 27 members, with Prakash's inclusion being a focal point of discussion.