President Murmu nominates Harivansh Narayan Singh to Rajya Sabha

NEW DELHI: In a key development for the Upper House, President Droupadi Murmu has nominated Harivansh Narayan Singh to the Rajya Sabha, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi.

The nomination was made under Article 80(1)(a) of the Constitution, recognising Harivansh’s contributions to journalism and social service. His new term will run until 2032, ensuring his continued role in parliamentary functioning.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-clause (a) of clause (1) of article 80 of the Constitution of India, read with clause (3) of that article, the President is pleased to nominate Shri Harivansh to the Council of States to fill the vacancy caused due to retirement of one of the nominated member," an official notification of the government said.

The move comes immediately after the end of his second term as a JD(U) member from Bihar on Thursday. Although his party did not renominate him through the state assembly, the presidential nomination enables the veteran leader to remain in the House without interruption.

Harivansh, who has been serving as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha since 2018, is considered an experienced parliamentary figure. Observers believe that the 69-year-old's re-entry will help maintain continuity in the House's operations during an active legislative period.

Before entering politics, Harivansh had a long career in journalism and social service, which formed the basis for his nomination to the Upper House.