The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has officially nominated Upendra Kushwaha for one of the two vacant Rajya Sabha seats in Bihar. The nomination process began today, with Kushwaha set to file his papers on August 20. While Kushwaha’s candidature has been confirmed, the NDA is yet to announce its candidate for the second seat. Speculation is rife, with names like former Union Minister RK Singh and Muslim leader Shahnawaz Hussain doing the rounds.
Sources suggest that RK Singh, who lost the Lok Sabha election from Ara, may be sent to the Rajya Sabha to woo Rajput voters. This move is seen as a strategic attempt to balance the caste equation, with Kushwaha’s nomination aimed at consolidating Kushwaha votes. Shahnawaz Hussain, a former Union Minister and Muslim leader, is also being considered for the second seat. However, Bihar BJP leaders are tight-lipped about the final decision.
The last date for nomination is August 21, while the last date for withdrawal of nomination is August 27. If necessary, elections will be held on September 3, with the result declared the same evening. However, the possibility of elections on both seats seems unlikely. Upendra Kushwaha expressed his gratitude to the NDA leadership for the opportunity, promising to work towards a grand victory for the alliance in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.