Nitish Kumar likely Rajya Sabha pick, intense JDU activity fuels Bihar CM buzz

UPDATED: Mar 4, 2026 16:30 IST

A major political development could be on the horizon in Bihar, with sources indicating that preparations are almost complete for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to be nominated to the Rajya Sabha, potentially triggering a reshuffle at the top.

According to party sources, nomination papers for Kumar’s Rajya Sabha bid have been prepared and are nearly ready, with only the Chief Minister’s signature pending. He is expected to file his nomination on March 5.

JDU IN HIGH-LEVEL DELIBERATIONS

The development has set off intense activity within the Janata Dal (United). Sources said the party has completed all formalities required for Kumar’s nomination, signalling that the move is in its final stages.

JDU Executive President Sanjay Jha met Kumar for nearly three hours amid growing buzz around the Rajya Sabha election. The lengthy meeting has added to speculation that a broader political strategy is being worked out.

At the same time, Union Minister Lallan Singh is scheduled to arrive in Patna from Delhi tomorrow morning, further intensifying political consultations within the party.

LEADERSHIP QUESTIONS SURFACE

If Kumar moves to the Rajya Sabha, it could open the door for a new Chief Minister in Bihar. Sources suggest that in such a scenario, the BJP could stake claim to the post, marking a significant political shift in the state.

While Ramnath Thakur is almost certain to be sent to the Rajya Sabha, the name of the second JDU candidate has not yet been finalised, keeping suspense alive.

‘SAMRIDDHI YATRA’ MAY BE DEFERRED

In another indication of the evolving political situation, sources said the next phase of Kumar’s ‘Samriddhi Yatra’, which was scheduled to begin from March 8, may be postponed.

The possible deferment of the tour has fuelled further speculation that the Chief Minister is preparing for a transition to national politics through the Rajya Sabha.

No official announcement has yet been made by the party leadership. However, with nomination papers nearly complete and senior leaders engaged in back-to-back meetings, Bihar’s political landscape appears poised for a significant turn.

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