Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Resigns from Legislative Council Ahead of Rajya Sabha Entry
Synopsis
In a historic political move, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has resigned from the Legislative Council to assume his position in the Rajya Sabha. This transition marks a significant milestone in his extensive political career, paving the way for new developments in Bihar's governance.
Key Takeaways
Nitish Kumar resigned from the Bihar Legislative Council to take his Rajya Sabha seat.
He has served four terms in the Legislative Council since 2006.
His transition marks a significant political milestone.
He can remain Chief Minister for six months without being in the legislature.
Kumar's political journey began in 1985 and continues to evolve.
Patna, March 30 (NationPress) Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar officially stepped down from his role in the Legislative Council on Monday, adhering to the constitutional guidelines prior to taking his oath as a Rajya Sabha member. Kumar was elected to the Upper House on March 16 and received his election certificate that same day, with his oath-taking ceremony scheduled for April 10.
In accordance with constitutional mandates, any individual elected to Parliament is required to resign from their current legislative role within a span of 14 days; failure to comply results in the cancellation of their new membership.
To meet this requirement, he submitted his resignation on March 30, which was presented by MLC Sanjay Gandhi on his behalf.
This resignation signifies the conclusion of Kumar’s extensive tenure in the Bihar Legislative Council.
First elected in 2006, he served four consecutive terms: 2006-2012, 2012-2018, 2018-2024, and is now set to take on a new role starting in 2024.
Since becoming Chief Minister in November 2005, Kumar has maintained his position through the Legislative Council rather than participating in Assembly elections.
Although he previously served as an MLA from Harnaut in 1985 and was also a member of the Lok Sabha, his Chief Ministership has primarily been anchored in the Upper House of the state legislature.
With his imminent transition to the Rajya Sabha, Nitish Kumar is poised to achieve a significant political milestone—having served in all four legislative bodies: the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Lok Sabha, Legislative Council, and now the Rajya Sabha.
This is regarded as a remarkable distinction in his lengthy political career.
Following his resignation from the Legislative Council, constitutional guidelines necessitate that Kumar resign as Chief Minister as well. However, he can remain in this role for up to six months without being a member of either House of the state legislature.
During this interim period, he must either regain membership or decide on an alternate political route.
Nitish Kumar’s shift to the Rajya Sabha heralds a new chapter in his political journey, which began in 1985.
His formal entry into the Upper House on April 10 is anticipated to influence Bihar’s political dynamics in the upcoming months.
Point of View
Nitish Kumar's resignation from the Bihar Legislative Council is a defining moment in his political career. It showcases his strategic maneuvering within the political landscape and highlights the constitutional processes that govern legislative transitions. His upcoming entry into the Rajya Sabha will not only impact his career but also shape Bihar's future political environment.
NationPress
29 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nitish Kumar resign from the Legislative Council?
Nitish Kumar resigned to comply with constitutional requirements before assuming his new role as a member of the Rajya Sabha.
When is Nitish Kumar taking the oath for Rajya Sabha?
He is scheduled to take the oath on April 10.
How long has Nitish Kumar been in politics?
His political career began in 1985, and he has served in various legislative roles since then.
What does his resignation mean for his role as Chief Minister?
He can continue as Chief Minister for up to six months without being a member of the state legislature but must secure membership again within that period.
What distinction does Nitish Kumar hold in Indian politics?
He is set to be a member of all four legislative bodies: Bihar Legislative Assembly, Lok Sabha, Legislative Council, and now the Rajya Sabha.
