End of an Era in Bihar Nitish Kumar to Step Down as CM Files Rajya Sabha Nomination

In a historic and long-anticipated political transition, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar formally filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha in Patna on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The move signals the end of his two-decade-long tenure as the state’s longest-serving Chief Minister and paves the way for a major leadership reshuffle in the Hindi heartland.

Accompanying him was Union Home Minister Amit Shah, whose presence underscored the central government's direct involvement in Bihar’s "regime change" and the strengthening of the NDA alliance.

Amit Shah Hails the "Golden Chapter" of Bihar

Speaking to reporters after the nomination, Home Minister Amit Shah lauded Nitish Kumar’s contribution to the state.

A Glorious Tenure: Shah described Nitish’s leadership since 2005 as a "golden chapter" in Bihar’s history, credited with pulling the state out of the "Jungle Raj" era and establishing "Sushashan" (Good Governance).

Return to the Centre: Shah noted that after a long hiatus, Nitish is returning to national politics where his vast administrative experience will be an asset to the Parliament.

Corruption-Free Legacy: The Home Minister particularly highlighted that throughout his career as Union Minister and CM, Nitish Kumar's image remained untainted by corruption.

Nitish’s Emotional "Adieu" and Future Role

Nitish Kumar took to social media (X) to share his thoughts on the transition, expressing deep gratitude to the people of Bihar.

A Long-Held Aspiration: He revealed that it was always his wish to serve in all four legislative bodies of India (MLA, MLC, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha). With this nomination, he achieves that rare milestone.

Commitment to Progress: While he is moving to Delhi, Nitish assured that his bond with Bihar remains "steadfast" and that he will provide "full cooperation and guidance" to the new government.

Timing of Resignation: Although he has filed his papers, Nitish is expected to formally resign as CM closer to April 9, 2026, when the new Rajya Sabha term officially begins.

The Succession Race: Who Will Lead Bihar?

With the "Forever CM" stepping aside, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to appoint its own Chief Minister in Bihar for the first time in history.

The Front-Runners: Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary is currently seen as the top contender for the post. Other names in circulation include Union Minister Nityanand Rai and Industry Minister Dilip Jaiswal.

The "Son" Rise: Speculation is rife regarding Nitish’s son, Nishant Kumar, making his political debut. Reports suggest he may join the JD(U) formally and could even be considered for a Deputy CM role to maintain the party’s core vote bank.

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