Voting Underway for Two Rajya Sabha Seats in Jharkhand Amid Political Tensions
Voting for two Rajya Sabha seats is currently underway in Jharkhand, igniting a fierce political contest between the ruling INDIA bloc and the opposition NDA. The election has gained significance following the death of a prominent JMM leader and the expiration of a BJP leader's term. With the INDIA bloc holding a numerical advantage, the entry of independent candidate Parimal Nathwani, backed by the BJP, adds complexity to the race. Both alliances are confident of their chances, while local ministers express strong sentiments about their prospects. This election is shaping up to be a crucial moment in Jharkhand's political landscape.
Jun 18, 2026, 09:29 IST
Voting for Rajya Sabha Seats in Jharkhand
Today, the Jharkhand Assembly is conducting voting for two Rajya Sabha seats, elevating the political temperature in the state. This election has transformed into a battle of prestige between the ruling INDIA bloc and the opposition NDA alliance. Notably, one seat became vacant following the passing of Shibu Soren, a prominent leader and co-founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), while the other seat is open due to the expiration of BJP leader Deepak Prakash's term on June 21.
Current Political Landscape
Numerical Advantage for INDIA Bloc
The INDIA bloc appears to have a numerical edge, boasting a total of 56 legislators, which includes 34 from JMM, 16 from Congress, four from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and two from CPI(ML) Liberation.
In contrast, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) holds 24 legislators, comprising 21 from BJP, along with one each from LJP (Ram Vilas), AJSU Party, and JD(U). Additionally, there is one MLA from the Jharkhand Democratic Revolutionary Front in the assembly.
Independent Candidate's Entry Changes Dynamics
New Twist with Nathwani's Candidacy
While the INDIA bloc is in a position to win both seats, the entry of independent candidate Parimal Nathwani has complicated the contest. He has the backing of the BJP and is expected to rely on potential 'cross-voting' from within the INDIA bloc.
Nathwani has previously served three terms in the Rajya Sabha, which strengthens his candidacy in this competitive race. His first term was from 2008 to 2014, during which he was elected as an independent candidate, reportedly receiving cross-votes from several legislators.
His second term lasted from 2014 to 2020, during which he was elected with the support of the BJP and the All Jharkhand Students Union. In 2020, he secured his third term from Andhra Pradesh, this time with backing from the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party. Both Congress and BJP express confidence in their respective victories, publicly positioning themselves as frontrunners.
Minister's Remarks on the Situation
Commenting on the situation, Jharkhand Minister Irfan Ansari stated, "What can I say? This is our seat, this is our Jharkhand, and we are going to win. What’s the problem? Who said the numbers are not in our favor? The figures here are certainly not in favor of the opposition; they favor the grand alliance. The BJP is nowhere near. BJP members are trying every possible way to defame Jharkhand. Why has it come to this? When the BJP lacks numbers, why are they unnecessarily jumping into the fray?"