Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has confirmed that he will contest the upcoming Rajya Sabha election, signalling a major shift in the state’s political landscape just months after beginning his tenth term as chief minister.
In a message addressed to the people of Bihar, Kumar thanked voters for their continued trust and support over the past two decades, saying their confidence had enabled him to serve the state with dedication.
“For more than two decades, you have consistently placed your trust and support in me, and on the strength of that trust we have worked to serve Bihar and its people with full commitment,” Kumar said in a post written in Hindi on social media platform X.
The veteran leader also reflected on his long political career and said he had always hoped to serve in every legislative forum available to him.
“From the beginning of my parliamentary journey, I had a desire to be a member of both Houses of the Bihar Legislature as well as both Houses of Parliament. In line with that aspiration, I am now seeking to become a member of the Rajya Sabha in the election taking place this time,” he wrote.
Kumar sought to reassure supporters that his decision to seek a seat in the Upper House of Parliament would not weaken his connection with the people of Bihar. He said his commitment to the development of the state would remain unchanged.
“My bond with you will remain the same in the future as well, and my resolve to work with you for a developed Bihar will continue with full strength,” he said, adding that the new government in the state would have his guidance and cooperation.
Kumar, the leader of the Janata Dal (United), has been one of the most prominent figures in Bihar politics for over two decades. If elected to the Rajya Sabha, he will add another milestone to his political career, having already served as a member of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, the Bihar Legislative Council and the Lok Sabha.
His entry into the Rajya Sabha would place him among a small group of leaders who have served in both Houses of a state legislature as well as both Houses of the Indian Parliament.
The development has also triggered speculation about leadership changes in Bihar, as Kumar’s move to the Rajya Sabha could eventually lead to the selection of a new chief minister in the state.
According to sources within the Janata Dal (United), Kumar is likely to continue in office as chief minister at least until the Rajya Sabha election scheduled for March 16.
