Patna, April 2 (IANS) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is likely to take oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha on April 10, according to sources from the Chief Minister’s residence.

He is likely to travel to Delhi on April 8 or 9 to complete the formalities in the Upper House of Parliament.

Following his return to Patna, Kumar is expected to resign from the post of Chief Minister any time after April 13.

Political developments are likely to gather pace after April 14, when the ‘Kharmas’ period (an inauspicious one-month Hindu period) concludes.

Meanwhile, the Bihar Home Department has issued orders confirming that Nitish Kumar will continue to receive ‘Z Plus’ category security even after stepping down as Chief Minister.

The order, issued by the Special Branch, states that his security cover will remain intact upon assuming office as a Rajya Sabha member.

According to the directive, the decision was taken after a review of his security requirements under the provisions of the Bihar Special Security Act, 2000.

The Director General of Police and the Special Branch have been instructed to ensure the highest level of protection.

The ‘Z Plus’ category is the highest tier of security cover in India, typically reserved for top dignitaries such as the Prime Minister, the President, and senior political leaders.

It involves a multi-layered security arrangement with around 55 personnel, including Personal Security Officers (PSOs), armed guards, escort vehicles, and round-the-clock surveillance.

Nitish Kumar was elected to the Rajya Sabha on March 16 and resigned from the Bihar Legislative Council on March 30.

His formal entry into the Upper House is expected to mark a significant political transition in the state.

In a related development, Kumar recently inspected a government bungalow at 7 Circular Road, where he is likely to reside after stepping down as Chief Minister.

The residence holds political significance, as he previously operated from the same location during key phases of his political career.

With these developments, Bihar’s political landscape is poised for a major shift in the coming days.

–IANS

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