President Droupadi Murmu Appoints Harivansh to Rajya Sabha for Third Term
Synopsis
In a pivotal political move, President Droupadi Murmu nominates Harivansh for a third term in the Rajya Sabha, securing his position until 2032. This decision ends speculation about his future amid potential shifts in party leadership.
Key Takeaways
Nomination of Harivansh: Appointed for a third term to the Rajya Sabha until 2032.
Political Stability: This move secures the NDA's majority in the Upper House.
Leadership Transition: Speculation surrounds JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar's potential entry into Parliament.
Experience: Harivansh brings decades of political and journalistic experience.
Parliamentary Committees: He has served on several key committees, influencing important legislation.
New Delhi, April 10 (NationPress) In a significant move, President Droupadi Murmu has nominated prominent leader Harivansh of the Janata Dal (United) for a third consecutive term in the Rajya Sabha, extending his term until 2032.
This decision quells rumors surrounding Harivansh’s position in Parliament, particularly after speculations that he might resign to allow JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar to take one of the party's designated seats. Kumar is anticipated to take his oath as a Member of Parliament shortly and resign from his role as Bihar Chief Minister.
Currently, the Rajya Sabha comprises 245 members, with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) holding a majority of about 141 seats, including 105 from the BJP, alongside partners such as AIADMK, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and JD(U).
Harivansh’s appointment is made under Article 80(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution, which allows the President to nominate individuals who have made significant contributions in fields like literature, science, art, and social service. An official notification from the government confirmed that his nomination fills a vacancy left by the retirement of a previous nominated member.
This decision follows the conclusion of Harivansh’s second term as a JD(U) representative from Bihar. With extensive experience as a politician and former journalist, he currently serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Harivansh, who will celebrate his 70th birthday in June, was first elected to the Rajya Sabha in April 2014. Throughout his tenure, he has participated in numerous key parliamentary committees, such as the Standing Committee on Defence, the Select Committee on the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2013, and the Joint Committee on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.
He first took office as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha on August 9, 2018, serving until April 2020. After a short break, he was re-elected to this position on September 14, 2020, and has since played a vital role in the operations of the Upper House.
Point of View
Harivansh's nomination reflects strategic political maneuvering within the JD(U) and the NDA alliance, ensuring stability in the Rajya Sabha as key leadership transitions loom in Bihar's political arena.
NationPress
15 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Harivansh's nomination signify?
His nomination for a third term in the Rajya Sabha indicates continued support from the NDA and stabilizes his role amid political changes.
What is the Rajya Sabha?
The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of India’s Parliament, consisting of 245 members who serve to represent the states and union territories.
What does Article 80(1)(a) entail?
Article 80(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution allows the President to nominate individuals with outstanding contributions in various fields to the Rajya Sabha.
What is the significance of the NDA's majority?
The NDA's majority in the Rajya Sabha, with around 141 seats, allows it to influence legislative decisions and maintain political stability.
