Patna, February 28, 2025: Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Friday reaffirmed that the state has witnessed consistent "rule of law" and "sustained development" since November 24, 2005—the date Chief Minister Nitish Kumar successfully won his initial floor test. Addressing the joint session of the Bihar legislature to mark the start of the budget session, Khan explicitly referenced this pivotal date twice during his 30-minute speech.
Governor Khan began by underscoring the state government's record of achievements, attributing significant advancements, particularly in law enforcement and public safety, to policies implemented since Kumar’s first tenure. Khan specifically highlighted the increase in police recruitment, notably emphasizing the enhanced representation of women in the force.
The governor's speech was intermittently disrupted by slogans from CPI(ML) Liberation legislators, who protested by appearing in the Vidhan Sabha premises wearing symbolic handcuffs and chains. Their demonstration aimed to condemn the alleged poor treatment faced by Indian nationals deported during former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. Visibly irritated yet composed, Governor Khan responded to their disruption with a vexed smile, stating, "Your protest has been registered. Now you please allow me to discharge my constitutional responsibilities."
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the longest-serving chief minister of Bihar and JD(U) President, was visibly pleased during Khan’s acknowledgment of the date. Kumar, who is set to seek a historic fifth consecutive term in office later this year, smiled when the governor mentioned the transformative changes since 2005. Meanwhile, legislators from the opposition RJD-Congress alliance, who faced criticism for the perceived "jungle raj" prior to Kumar’s administration, were seen exchanging quiet remarks, possibly reflecting on Kumar's brief alliances with them in the past.
In addition to law enforcement reforms, Governor Khan outlined strategic developmental plans in agriculture through comprehensive five-year "road maps" aimed at enhancing productivity. He further emphasized the government's initiative to bolster healthcare infrastructure through the establishment of new medical colleges.
Khan also stressed Bihar’s commitment to communal harmony, assuring legislators that citizens of all faiths would continue to receive equal respect and treatment from the state administration.
Following the governor’s address, members dispersed to their respective legislative chambers, where proceedings were briefly adjourned after customary obituary references. Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary presented the state's economic survey amidst chaotic scenes, with opposition legislators loudly alleging a "murder of democracy."
The opposition's anger centered around defectors—four from RJD and two from Congress—who crossed over to the NDA last year. Opposition MLAs objected vehemently as these defectors were seated prominently near the ruling benches despite pending petitions before Assembly Speaker Nand Kishor Yadav seeking their disqualification.
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