RJD Nominates Rekha Kumari Gupta for Bihar's Bankipur By-Election
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has declared Rekha Kumari Gupta as its candidate for the upcoming Bankipur by-election in Bihar. This decision follows the resignation of BJP leader Nitin Nabin, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha. RJD's announcement quashes rumors of potential support for Prashant Kishor from the INDIA alliance. Gupta previously contested the seat in 2025 and aims to reclaim it for the party. With a history of strong competition in this constituency, the RJD is determined to make a significant impact in the upcoming election.
Jul 6, 2026, 18:48 IST
RJD Announces Candidate for Bankipur By-Election
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has officially named Rekha Kumari Gupta as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Bihar's Bankipur assembly constituency. This election has become necessary following the resignation of BJP leader Nitin Nabin, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha. During a press conference in Patna, Mangni Lal Mandal, the president of RJD's Bihar unit, confirmed that Gupta will represent the Grand Alliance in this by-poll. He also noted that she had previously contested elections on the party's ticket.
Mandal mentioned that Rekha Kumari, also known as Rekha Gupta, had participated in the November 2025 elections for this seat, securing approximately 47,000 votes. With Nitin Nabin's resignation leaving the seat vacant, the party has decided to field her once again.
Speculations Addressed Regarding Support for Prashant Kishor
This announcement from RJD puts to rest rumors that the INDIA alliance was considering supporting Prashant Kishor, the founder of Jan Suraj, for the by-election. Previously, a Congress leader had suggested that Kishor should be the opposition's candidate, but RJD dismissed this proposal. The party emphasized its commitment to contesting the Bankipur by-election, a stronghold of the BJP.
Mandal stated that they have not heard any such discussions from Congress leadership. He reassured that Rekha Gupta's candidacy has the backing of all their allies, and they have not claimed any seats where their partners were in contention. RJD had previously contested from Bankipur, which is why they are re-entering the race.
Gupta's Previous Election Performance
In the 2025 Bihar elections, Gupta ran for Bankipur on the RJD ticket but lost to Nabin by over 40,000 votes. According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), Gupta received 46,363 votes (29.55%), while Nabin won with 98,299 votes (62.66%). Notably, Nabin has won all assembly elections from Bankipur since 2010. This assembly seat, located in Patna district and part of the Patna Sahib Lok Sabha constituency, was established in 2008.