WB CM Mamata Banerjee announces ex-gratia for firecracker factory blast victims

A major political shift is unfolding in Bihar. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has confirmed he will step down and seek a seat in the Rajya Sabha. The announcement stunned political circles and triggered emotional protests among Janata Dal (United) workers in Patna. Supporters gathered outside the Chief Minister’s residence, some breaking down in tears and accusing their own leader of walking away from the mandate of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. Kumar said he always wished to serve in both Houses of Parliament and both Houses of the state legislature. With stints as Lok Sabha MP, MLA and MLC already behind him, the Rajya Sabha would complete that journey. But the timing has sparked debate about leadership succession in Bihar and whether the veteran leader’s exit from the state’s top post could reshape the political landscape.