After Delhi, BJP To Pick Woman CM For Bihar? 4 Names In The Running To Replace Nitish Kumar

Last Updated:March 05, 2026, 13:45 IST

The discussion has gained traction particularly after the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, which witnessed a noticeable increase in women's representation

The official announcement regarding Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar moving to the Rajya Sabha has stirred fresh political speculation within the state. His likely shift to Delhi has triggered discussions about a possible leadership change in the state, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) now faced with multiple options for the top post.

Political observers say the development could open the door for a surprising move, the possibility of a woman chief minister. As Bihar’s political landscape adjusts to the changing scenario, the question being widely discussed is whether the BJP might experiment with women’s leadership in the state, similar to its recent strategy in other regions. If such a move materialises, Bihar could see its second woman chief minister after Rabri Devi.

The discussion has gained traction particularly after the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, which witnessed a noticeable increase in women’s representation. A total of 29 women MLAs were elected to the state Assembly, of whom 10 belong to the BJP. The party had fielded 13 women candidates, with 10 emerging victorious, a success rate political analysts consider significant.

In recent years, several states have seen the promotion of women leaders in prominent political roles, prompting speculation that the BJP could attempt a similar strategy in Bihar. While the party has not offered any official indication, political circles are actively discussing the possibility.

1. Renu Devi

Among the names drawing attention, Renu Devi is considered the most experienced contender. An MLA from Bettiah in West Champaran, she served as deputy chief minister of Bihar from 2020 to 2022. A senior BJP leader with long-standing involvement in the party’s women’s wing, Renu Devi has been elected to the Bihar Assembly multiple times and is regarded as having strong organisational influence. Analysts believe her administrative experience and organisational grounding make her a leading contender if the BJP considers a woman for the chief minister’s post.

2. Rama Nishad

Another name frequently mentioned is Rama Nishad, the MLA from Aurai and a former minister. Her political significance is linked to social equations, as the Nishad community holds influence across several regions of Bihar. Observers say that if the BJP aims to send a strong message to the extremely backward classes (EBC), promoting Rama Nishad could serve that purpose.

3. Shreyasi Singh

The list also includes Shreyasi Singh, an emerging political figure who first gained national recognition as a shooter. Now an MLA from Jamui, she is often viewed as a young, educated and modern political face. Analysts say that if the BJP seeks to promote youth leadership, Singh could be a significant choice.

4. Gayatri Devi

Another leader being discussed is Gayatri Devi, the MLA from Parihar in Sitamarhi district. Known for her strong local political presence, Gayatri Devi has been active in regional social and development issues. Political observers suggest that if the BJP seeks to strengthen its OBC outreach, leaders such as her could play an important role.

Apart from these prominent names, several other women MLAs are also being mentioned in political discussions. Nisha Singh, who won from Pranpur and comes from a backward community background, is seen as a leader with strong local connect. Kavita Devi, an MLA from Kodha belonging to the Scheduled Caste category, is also considered politically significant due to the potential to consolidate Dalit support. Meanwhile, Devanti Yadav, who represents Narpatganj and belongs to the Yadav community, is viewed as a relatively new entrant to state-level politics.

The rise in the number of women legislators after the 2025 Bihar Assembly polls has already begun to reshape political conversations in the state. Many women MLAs have become increasingly active on regional and state-level issues, signalling that women’s leadership could play a more prominent role in Bihar’s politics in the coming years.

Political experts note that caste equations, administrative experience and organisational strength remain crucial factors in the state’s political decision-making. If the BJP ultimately decides to appoint a woman chief minister, they say, the move would likely be part of a broader political strategy rather than a sudden decision.

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