Nitish Kumar Announces Rajya Sabha Bid, to Quit CM Post

The veteran Bihar leader says he wants to complete his parliamentary journey — and will support whoever forms the next government.

By AMIT KUMAR

Patna, March 5, 2026 — Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday indicated a significant political transition, announcing his desire to contest the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections while signalling that he would step back from direct executive governance in the state.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kumar thanked Bihar’s people for over two decades of unwavering trust and support. “It is the strength of your belief and support that Bihar today presents a new dimension of development and dignity,” he wrote.

Kumar revealed that he had harboured a long-standing personal ambition since entering parliamentary life — to become a member of both Houses of Bihar’s state legislature as well as both Houses of Parliament. With membership of the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and Bihar Legislative Assembly already to his credit, contesting the Rajya Sabha election would complete that rare distinction.

“In this sequence, I wish to become a member of the Rajya Sabha in the elections being held this time,” Kumar stated.

Significantly, the Bihar Chief Minister assured continuity for the state’s development agenda even after his expected transition. “I want to assure you honestly that my relationship with you will continue in the future, and the resolve to build a developed Bihar together will remain as before,” he said.

In what many will read as a clear hint at stepping down from the Chief Minister’s post, Kumar added that “whoever forms the new government will have my full cooperation and guidance.”

Kumar had first Chief Minister of Bihar in 2005. Since then, he led the state by forming a government in an alliance with the BJP or the RJD. Kumar is rumoured to be facing health issues. It is also likely that the BJP will install a CM from own ranks in the BJP.

Nitish Kumar: Politics, Protégé and the Question of Political Twilight

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About The Author

amitkumar

Amit Kumar is a senior Delhi-based journalist with over two decades of reporting experience. His past has been with The Hindustan Times, Mid-Day, and others.

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