PATNA, April 12 -- The countdown for the formation of a new government with a first-ever chief minister in Bihar has begun, as Nitish Kumar is set to tender his resignation and the shifting of his residence to 7, Circular Road has picked up.

The BJP on Sunday appointed Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan central observer. BJP national general secretary and headquarters in-charge Arun Singh issued a letter to this effect.

The BJP and the JD(U) have also asked all their legislators to reach Patna in anticipation of the crucial legislature party meeting, pointing to the crucial 48 hours ahead.

The meeting of home minister Amit Shah with BJP president Nitin Nabin on Saturday in the wake of hectic parleys of Bihar party in-charge Vinod Taw...