In a notable political development within Bihar, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Patna has recently sworn in a new government, bringing about substantial changes in key leadership positions. Notably, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has orchestrated a significant transformation by appointing leaders from diverse communities to crucial roles.
Vijay Sinha, representing the Bhumihar community, and Samrat Chaudhary, hailing from a marginalized community, have been appointed as Deputy Chief Ministers in the newly formed government. The swearing-in ceremony saw both leaders, Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Sinha, taking the oath for their respective positions, marking a pivotal moment in Bihar’s political landscape.
Samrat Chaudhary’s political journey commenced in 1999, originating from the Koeri (Kushwaha) community. His official entry into the Bihar BJP as State President occurred on March 27, 2023. Prior to this, he held influential positions in the Bihar Legislative Council, contributing to the political fabric of the region. His induction into the BJP six years ago was perceived as a strategic move to secure the Lav (Kurmi) and Kush (Kushwaha) votes.
Having previously been associated with Lalu Prasad’s Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) JD(U), Samrat Chaudhary played a pivotal role as the Panchayati Raj Minister in Nitish Kumar’s previous NDA government. His political career, which commenced in 1999, saw him representing the Parbatta constituency in the Bihar Legislative Assembly and serving as a minister in the Rabri Devi government.
Born in the small village of Lakhnapur in Munger district, Samrat Chaudhary comes from a family deeply rooted in politics. Both his parents were seasoned politicians, with his father, Shukuni Chaudhary, having held various positions such as Member of Parliament, Member of Legislative Assembly, and Deputy Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly. Shukuni Chaudhary’s close association with Lalu Prasad Yadav added a significant dimension to Samrat Chaudhary’s political legacy.
Samrat Chaudhary received his primary education in Tarapur and pursued further studies at Madurai Kamaraj University. His political influence reached new heights when he served as the Minister of Urban Development and Housing in the previous NDA government, showcasing his commitment to developmental initiatives.
In the political landscape of 2014, during the Manjhi government, Samrat Chaudhary continued to contribute as a minister. His trajectory led him to become the Deputy Chairman and subsequently the Chairman of the Bihar BJP in 2018. In 2022, he assumed the role of the leader of the opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, showcasing his adaptability and influence across different political arenas.
Presently, Samrat Chaudhary holds the position of Chief Coordinator at the Ashok S Foundation, adding a philanthropic dimension to his multifaceted role. Alongside Vijay Kumar Sinha, both leaders from the BJP have made history by becoming Deputy Chief Ministers for the first time in the Munger district and region within the Bihar government. This historic appointment has generated tremendous enthusiasm and joy among the residents of Tarapur and signifies a strategic outreach by the BJP to various communities in the state.
The elevation of Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha to the position of Deputy Chief Ministers not only reshapes Bihar’s political narrative but also reflects the BJP’s concerted efforts to foster inclusivity and representation across diverse sections of the society.
