Nitish Kumar, Nitin Nabin File Rajya Sabha Nominations In Presence Of Amit Shah

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha elections, signalling a major shift in state politics and intense buzz over a change of guard. The move is widely seen as preparation for a Bharatiya Janata Party leader to step into the chief minister’s chair, ending Nitish Kumar’s long tenure at the top.

Nitish Kumar submitted the nomination papers in Patna on 5 March 2026, with Bharatiya Janata Party national president Nitin Nabin by his side. The step comes less than a year after Nitish Kumar took oath as chief minister for a record tenth time in November, underlining how quickly the political script in Bihar is changing again.

Nitish Kumar Rajya Sabha nomination Bihar CM buzz and Amit Shah’s role

Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present during the filing process in Patna, underlining the Bharatiya Janata Party’s central role in the transition. Amit Shah also met Nitish Kumar, a day after hours of speculation over Nitish Kumar’s next move and his possible shift to Delhi politics through the Rajya Sabha route.

Nitish Kumar publicly confirmed the plan to move to the Upper House and promised to back the incoming state leadership. "I seek to become a member of the Rajya Sabha in the elections being held this time. I want to assure you with complete honesty that my relationship with you will continue in the future as well, and my resolve to work together with you to build a developed Bihar will remain steadfast. The new government that will be formed will have my full cooperation and guidance," he posted on X.

Nitish Kumar Rajya Sabha nomination Bihar CM buzz and party reaction

The announcement has stunned many Janata Dal (United) workers and supporters, who had expected Nitish Kumar to remain in the chief minister’s office. Groups of supporters gathered outside the chief minister’s residence in Patna and voiced anger, saying they did not accept that Nitish Kumar was stepping away from the top post.

The timing of the Rajya Sabha nomination coincides with a change within Nitish Kumar’s own family and party circle. Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar, has entered active politics, with Janata Dal (United) leaders saying Nishant Kumar is poised to take on a prominent organisational role. This has added another layer of interest to the unfolding transition in Bihar.

The latest developments also sit against a backdrop of growing speculation over who will succeed Nitish Kumar as Bihar’s next chief minister, with several Bharatiya Janata Party names circulating as likely contenders. While the final decision remains with the alliance leadership, Nitish Kumar’s clear statement of support for the future cabinet suggests an orderly handover, even as many in the party base struggle to accept the change.