Political activities in Bihar have reached a fever pitch ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for April 2026. A total of five Rajya Sabha seats are set to fall vacant on 9 April 2026, with the NDA (BJP‑JDU alliance) expected to gain a significant advantage.

Inside the NDA, tensions have already begun to surface. From the BJP side, Nitin Nabin’s election to the Rajya Sabha is almost certain, as the party recently appointed him as its National Executive President.

On the other hand, Upendra Kushwaha faces a much more difficult political equation this time. With a limited number of supporters, securing a second term in the Rajya Sabha appears challenging for him.

NDA ally Jitan Ram Manjhi has made it clear that if his party is not allotted a Rajya Sabha seat, he may even consider leaving the alliance. Manjhi alleged that the promise of a Rajya Sabha seat made to his party in 2024 was not fulfilled.

In response, other NDA allies have refused to discuss the matter publicly, while Kushwaha also stated that he will not make any separate statements and that any decision will be taken after internal deliberations.

To win a Rajya Sabha seat, a candidate needs the support of at least 41 MLAs in the Bihar Assembly. Considering the current composition of the Assembly, the BJP‑JDU alliance is relatively well-positioned to secure the seats.

Experts say that the NDA’s strength in the Rajya Sabha could increase, while opposition parties may find it challenging to win a seat.

The preparations for the Rajya Sabha elections are not limited to mere arithmetic—they also test the balance of power within alliances and among leaders. As April 2026 approaches, political activity and maneuvering in Bihar are expected to intensify further.