Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: In a new twist to political developments in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on March 5 filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha elections.
Nitish Kumar’s shift to the Rajya Sabha could potentially reshape the leadership structure in the state. All five candidates, including BJP president Nitin Nabin, Shivesh Kumar Ram, and Upendra Kushwaha (president of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha) of the ruling alliance, also submitted their nominations. Several senior NDA leaders were present during the filing process, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who arrived in Patna from New Delhi for the occasion.
While the nomination marked a significant political transition for Nitish Kumar, the development triggered unrest among a section of Janata Dal(United) leaders and workers.
The JD(U) chief has been the Chief Minister of Bihar for 10 times since 2005. Nitish Kumar led the ruling NDA to a landslide victory in the Assembly elections held in November 2025.
While the nomination marked a significant political transition for Nitish Kumar, the development triggered unrest among a section of Janata Dal(United) leaders and workers
Earlier, taking to the social media platform X, Nitish Kumar addressed the people of the state, writing that for more than two decades, they have consistently reposed trust and support in him, enabling him to serve Bihar with dedication.
He credited the people’s faith for Bihar’s progress and enhanced respect at the national level, expressing gratitude once again for their continued backing. Nitish Kumar stated that since the beginning of his parliamentary career, he had aspired to become a member of both Houses of the Bihar Legislature and Parliament.
In that spirit, he announced his decision to seek election to the Rajya Sabha in the current election. Assuring the people of his continued commitment, Nitish Kumar said his relationship with the citizens of Bihar would remain intact and that his resolve to work towards building a developed Bihar would not waver. He added that he would extend full support and guidance to the new government that would be formed.
With Nitish Kumar’s nomination, two names have emerged as the key contenders for the top post of chief ministership. According to political watchers, Samrat Choudhary and Nityanand Rai are the likely contenders for the chief minister’s seat.