Patna: Panchayati Raj Minister Deepak Prakash stated on Tuesday that any decision regarding his position in the state cabinet would be taken by the NDA leadership. Responding to queries about the Supreme Court notice on a PIL challenging his continuation as a minister despite not being a member of either House of the state legislature, he maintained that he remains in office and will abide by the alliance's decision.
Minister's Stance
"As of now, I am a minister, just as I was earlier. I continue to be a minister in the same manner, and whatever decision has to be taken will be decided by the leadership of the alliance," Deepak said.
Supreme Court Proceedings
Regarding the Supreme Court proceedings, he said he had not yet received the notice officially and had only learned about it through media reports. He added that he would examine the matter after receiving the notice.
Father's Support
His father and Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) chief Upendra Kushwaha ruled out any possibility of resignation, asserting that the NDA leadership had appointed Deepak as a minister for the full term.
Supreme Court Notice
The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to the Bihar government, the Election Commission of India, and Deepak on a petition challenging his reappointment as a minister. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice V. Mohana sought clarification on Deepak's current status, following which the petitioner's counsel informed the court that he continued to serve in the cabinet.
Legal Context
The petitioner relied on the Supreme Court's 2001 judgment in the S.R. Chaudhary versus State of Punjab case, arguing that the six-month exemption available under Article 164(4) of the Constitution cannot be renewed through resignation, cabinet reshuffles, or a change of chief minister. Under Article 164(4), a person who is not a member of the legislature can serve as a minister for a maximum of six consecutive months and must secure membership within that period. According to the petition, Deepak first became a minister on November 20, 2025, and was reappointed on May 7, 2026, despite the six-month period allegedly ending on May 20 this year.
Conclusion
The matter is pending before the Supreme Court, and the NDA leadership is expected to take a decision on Deepak Prakash's ministerial position. Stay updated with the latest Patna news.
