Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday filed his nomination papers for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, signalling an end to his long reign in the state and paving the way for a possible BJP leader to take over the top post.

Nitish Kumar, who took oath as Bihar’s chief minister for the record 10th time last year in November, filed his nomination alongside BJP national president Nitin Nabin.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present on the occasion and met with Nitish, who announced his move to the Rajya Sabha after hours of speculation the day before and just as his son, Nishant Kumar, entered active politics with JD(U) leaders saying he will take up a leading role in the party.

His decision to file his nomination for the Rajya Sabha election has taken JD(U) workers and supporters by surprise. Protesting outside his residence in Patna, they refused to believe that he has decided to give up the chief minister post.

Nitish, while confirming his move to the Rajya Sabha, said the new cabinet will have his full support. “I seek to become a member of the Rajya Sabha in the elections being held this time. I want to assure you with complete honesty that my relationship with you will continue in the future as well, and my resolve to work together with you to build a developed Bihar will remain steadfast. The new government that will be formed will have my full cooperation and guidance," he posted on X.

Source: India Today