Harivansh Narayan Singh Re-elected as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Unopposed

In a significant political event, Harivansh Narayan Singh has been re-elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha without opposition. This marks his third consecutive term, reflecting the trust he holds within the house. The election process was scheduled for April 17, following the end of his previous term. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the coincidence of this election with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandrashekhar, emphasizing Harivansh's connection to him. The opposition's decision to boycott the election has raised concerns about the government's engagement with them. Read on for more details about this pivotal moment in Indian politics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 17, 2026, 12:06 IST

Significant Political Development in India

In a notable event in Indian politics, veteran journalist and politician Harivansh Narayan Singh has been re-elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third consecutive term without opposition. The election process concluded unopposed due to the absence of any candidates from the opposition, reflecting the trust and respect he commands within the house.

Election Process and Historical Context

Following the end of Harivansh's previous term on April 9, the position became vacant. The Chairman and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan scheduled the election for April 17 under Rule 7 of the 'Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States.'

A Fortunate Coincidence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Harivansh, noting that the day coincides with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandrashekhar. He remarked on Harivansh's close association with Chandrashekhar, emphasizing that starting this new term on such a significant date is particularly meaningful.

Harivansh's Unopposed Victory

Reports indicate that five notices were received in support of Harivansh's candidacy, while the opposition chose not to submit any, opting to boycott the election. This boycott was a protest against the Modi government's failure to appoint a Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha for the past seven years.

The leader of the house, J.P. Nadda, introduced the first proposal, which was supported by S. Phangnon Konyak. The second proposal was presented by Nitin Naveen, with backing from BJP MP Brij Lal.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman submitted another notice, supported by BJP MP Surendra Singh Nagar. JD(U) MP and Executive President Sanjay Kumar Jha also proposed a motion, which was backed by RLM MP Upendra Kushwaha.

Another notice was submitted by RLD MP and Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary, supported by Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora.

With no opposition candidates, the election was completed unopposed. The house passed the first proposal presented by Nadda by voice vote, after which the Chairman declared Harivansh elected. Having already served two terms as Deputy Chairman, this will mark his third term if confirmed.

Opposition's Response

The Congress party criticized the government for not engaging in meaningful discussions with the opposition but expressed hope that 'Harivansh 3.0' would be more approachable and accountable to their concerns.

They also condemned the government's unprecedented decision not to appoint a Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha for seven years. They pointed out that Harivansh's second term ended on April 9, and he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha the following day, after which he was declared the NDA candidate for a third term as Deputy Chairman. They noted that never before had a nominated member been considered for the Deputy Chairman position, adding that the entire process was completed without any substantial dialogue with the opposition.