Bihar Minister Ashok Choudhary Faces Possible MLC Disqualification Over Assistant Professor Post At Patna College

Bihar Food and Consumer Protection Minister Ashok Choudhary could be disqualified from his position as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) if he continues his teaching duties at A N College, Patna. This potential disqualification stems from a note issued by the Raj Bhavan, the Governor's Secretariat, which holds that holding an academic position constitutes an office of profit.

Choudhary joined A N College's Political Science department on February 17, 2026, while already serving as an MLC and minister. He took leave the following day to manage his political responsibilities.

The matter was brought before the university Syndicate on August 19, leading Vice-Chancellor Upendra Prasad Singh to refer it to the Governor's Secretariat for clarification on Choudhary's eligibility. The note dated October 31, 2026, stated that Choudhary was not entitled to lien (suspension of disqualification) as he was on probation.

Section 68(2) of the Bihar State Universities Act, 1976, which grants special leave to university employees elected to legislatures, does not apply to legislators subsequently appointed as university teachers, according to the note. The assistant professor's position is deemed an office of profit, regardless of whether Choudhary is paid.

The final decision on Choudhary's disqualification will be made by the Chairman of the Bihar Legislative Council. His attorney general has been consulted on the matter, and the Raj Bhavan has sought the Advocate General's opinion. Choudhary described the Raj Bhavan note as "motivated," citing instances of university employees receiving lien during probation at other universities. He argued that Section 68(2) should be fairly interpreted, given that several Bihar legislators hold academic positions.