Nitish Kumar to file nomination for Rajya Sabha, ends speculation

Putting weeks of speculation to rest, Nitish Kumar on Thursday confirmed that he will file his nomination for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, marking a significant shift in his long political career after serving as Bihar Chief Minister for more than two decades.In a post on X, the Janata Dal (United) president said his decision was driven by a long-standing aspiration to become a member of both Houses of Parliament as well as both Houses of the state legislature. Over the course of his political career, Kumar has served as a member of the Lok Sabha, as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), and as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC). Entry into the Rajya Sabha, he said, would now fulfil that long-held wish.“For the past two decades, you have steadfastly trusted and supported me, and it is through that strength that I have served Bihar and all of you with complete devotion. It is because of your trust and support that Bihar is today embracing a new dimension of development and respect,” Kumar wrote in his post.

पिछले दो दशक से भी अधिक समय से आपने अपना विश्वास एवं समर्थन मेरे साथ लगातार बनाए रखा है, तथा उसी के बल पर हमने बिहार की और आप सब लोगों की पूरी निष्ठा से सेवा की है। आपके विश्वास और समर्थन की ही ताकत थी कि बिहार आज विकास और सम्मान का नया आयाम प्रस्तुत कर रहा है। इसके लिए पूर्व में…

— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) March 5, 2026

Reflecting on his parliamentary journey, he said that since the beginning of his career he had aspired to represent both chambers of the Bihar legislature and Parliament. “In this regard, I am seeking to become a member of the Rajya Sabha in this election,” he added.Kumar also assured supporters that his shift to the Upper House would not affect his commitment to the state. “I want to assure you with complete sincerity that this relationship with you will continue, and my resolve to work together to build a developed Bihar will remain intact. The new government that is formed will have my full support and guidance,” he said.Elections for five Rajya Sabha seats from Bihar are scheduled for March 16, with Thursday being the last day for filing nominations. Kumar’s entry into the contest is expected to be a key development in the state’s political landscape, given his long-standing influence in Bihar politics.