Nitish Kumar rewrites Bihar political script, set to leave CM post for Rajya Sabha

After leading the NDA to a sweeping victory in the 2025 Bihar assembly elections, Nitish Kumar announced he will step down as chief minister and move to the Rajya Sabha. The decision marks a new phase in his long political career as he prepares to take on a role in Parliament.

Nitish Kumar filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha with senior NDA leaders present, including Union home minister Amit Shah. The moment signalled strong backing from the alliance as he transitions from Bihar politics to Parliament.

Over the years, Nitish Kumar has worked closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of the NDA. Their political partnership has shaped governance and electoral strategies in Bihar.

Nitish Kumar stepped down after serving a record tenth term as Bihar’s chief minister, marking the end of a long tenure that defined the state’s political landscape.

Nitish Kumar thanked the people of Bihar for their continued trust over the past two decades, saying their support enabled his government to work towards development and dignity in the state.

Under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, the NDA secured a massive mandate in the 2025 Bihar assembly elections, winning 202 seats and reinforcing his political dominance in the state.

Nitish Kumar earned the reputation of “Sushasan Babu,” associated with governance reforms, development initiatives and improved law and order in Bihar.

His tenure saw the launch of several welfare schemes focused on social development, including programmes supporting women, education and financial assistance.

Born in 1951 in Bakhtiarpur, Nitish Kumar trained as an electrical engineer before entering politics during the movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan during the Emergency.

From winning his first assembly election in 1985 to serving multiple terms as chief minister, Nitish Kumar has remained one of Bihar’s most influential leaders.