Political activity intensified in Bihar on Thursday as workers of Janata Dal (United) staged a protest outside the official residence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in Patna. The demonstration came amid strong speculation that Kumar may soon file his nomination for the Rajya Sabha, a move that could potentially end his long tenure as Bihar’s Chief Minister.
Supporters gathered outside the residence raising slogans in favour of Nitish Kumar and expressing concern over reports that he might step down from the Chief Minister’s post to enter the Upper House of Parliament. Many party workers argued that the public mandate in Bihar was secured in his name and that he should continue leading the state government.
The protest intensified when workers reportedly stopped party leader Krishna Murari Sharan from entering the Chief Minister’s residence, reflecting growing unrest within sections of the party cadre.
Several JD(U) supporters said they were unhappy with the possibility of Nitish Kumar leaving the top post so soon after the latest mandate. Speaking about the issue, a party worker claimed that campaigning in villages across the state was done in Nitish Kumar’s name and that people voted with the expectation that he would continue as Chief Minister.
Another worker echoed similar sentiments, insisting that the mandate given by the people in 2025 should be respected and not altered midway through the government’s term.
If Nitish Kumar eventually shifts to the Rajya Sabha, it could significantly reshape Bihar’s political landscape. Political observers say such a move might pave the way for a new Chief Minister, potentially from the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is currently an ally of JD(U) in the state government.
The development has surprised many analysts because Nitish Kumar had taken oath as Bihar’s Chief Minister for the 10th time in November 2025. Stepping down only a few months later would mark a major political shift.
Speculation has also intensified about the possible political debut of Kumar’s son Nishant Kumar, though the veteran leader had earlier resisted suggestions about his entry into politics.
Meanwhile, discussions have begun over who might replace Nitish Kumar if he vacates the Chief Minister’s post. Names doing the rounds in political circles include Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, Union Minister Nityanand Rai, and Bihar minister Dilip Kumar Jaiswal.
At 75, Nitish Kumar—often referred to as “Susashan Babu”—has remained one of the most influential leaders in Bihar politics for nearly two decades. However, in recent months, opposition leaders including Tejashwi Yadav of the Rashtriya Janata Dal have raised questions about his health after several videos from public events went viral.
With speculation mounting and political calculations intensifying, Bihar’s political future appears to be entering a potentially transformative phase.