Patna: The Election Commission of India has lifted the Model Code of Conduct in Bihar following the conclusion of the state’s Assembly elections, submitting a list of the 243 newly elected MLAs to Governor Arif Mohammad Khan. This action paves the way for the establishment of a new government in the state. Chief Election Officer Vinod Singh Gunjyal presented the list of winning candidates from all parties to the Governor at the Raj Bhavan in Patna on Sunday evening, with Principal Secretary of the Election Commission Arvind Anand also in attendance.
While this submission is a significant procedural step, the Commission has not yet issued a formal order to officially lift the code of conduct, which had been in effect since the election schedule was announced on October 6. The results from Bihar’s two-phase elections, released on November 14, showed a decisive victory for the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which secured 202 seats, while the Grand Alliance of opposition parties managed only 35 seats. Discussions concerning the new government are already taking place in Patna and Delhi. Senior NDA leaders visited Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s residence, and a meeting of JD(U) and Bihar BJP leaders was held at the home of Union Minister Amit Shah.
Reports suggest that the current cabinet will meet on Monday, after which Nitish Kumar may resign to facilitate the formation of the new administration. Nitish Kumar is anticipated to return as Chief Minister, with a formal announcement expected in the next day or two. The Raj Bhavan will later confirm the date for the swearing-in ceremony of the new government.
