Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is scheduled to file his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha today, March 5, 2026. This transition marks a significant moment in the state’s political history as the long-serving leader prepares to move to the Upper House of Parliament. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to be present in Patna to witness the filing of nominations for both Nitish Kumar and BJP state president Nitin Nabin.
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Key Details of the Nomination and Potential Leadership Change
The nomination process will take place at the Bihar State Assembly between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM. Following the filing, Nitish Kumar is likely to convene a meeting with JD(U) legislators to discuss the future course of action. There is strong speculation that he will announce his resignation from the post of Chief Minister, concluding a record-breaking tenure that saw him take the oath 10 times. This move fulfills his personal ambition to serve in all four legislative houses, including the Vidhan Sabha, Vidhan Parishad, Lok Sabha, and finally the Rajya Sabha.
Important Dates and Election Schedule for Bihar
The election process for the vacant Rajya Sabha seats from Bihar follows a strict timeline as per the official notification. Candidates require the support of at least 41 MLAs in the 243-member assembly to secure a seat. Five seats from Bihar are set to fall vacant on April 9, 2026. The BJP currently holds 89 seats while the JD(U) has 85, leading to discussions that the next Chief Minister may be from the BJP for the first time in the state.
| Event Description | Scheduled Date |
|---|---|
| Nomination Deadline | March 5, 2026 |
| Scrutiny of Papers | March 6, 2026 |
| Last Date for Withdrawal | March 9, 2026 |
| Polling Date (If needed) | March 16, 2026 |
| Counting of Votes | March 16, 2026 (5:00 PM) |
Official statements from JD(U) leaders indicate that these developments are occurring with the full consent of the Chief Minister. Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary noted that the final decisions regarding the transition and succession remain with Nitish Kumar. Additionally, there is talk regarding the formal entry of his son, Nishant Kumar, into active politics, which could involve a role in the state cabinet to maintain the party’s core support base during this transition period.
