Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes Nitish Kumar's Rajya Sabha Nomination

Akhilesh Yadav slammed the BJP as Bihar CM Nitish Kumar filed his Rajya Sabha nomination, expressing his wish for Kumar's retirement as PM. JD(U) workers are reportedly upset yet supportive of Kumar's decision, while Nishant Kumar is set to join the party.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has launched a fresh criticism against the BJP following Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's nomination for the Rajya Sabha elections in 2026. Yadav expressed a desire for Kumar to retire as the Prime Minister, suggesting instead that he is now set to retire as a Rajya Sabha member.

Nitish Kumar, who had previously rejoined the National Democratic Alliance prior to the 2024 General Elections, was once a pivotal figure in the INDIA bloc and regarded by many of his supporters as a prospective prime ministerial candidate. Despite a sense of dissatisfaction among Janata Dal (United) ranks, Bihar minister Shravan Kumar reaffirmed their unwavering support for Kumar's recent political maneuver.

In a statement to ANI, Shravan Kumar clarified that Nitish Kumar had addressed his decision-making process with party leaders, emphasizing the collective agreement to back Kumar's strategic move to the Rajya Sabha. Addressing opposition claims of BJP influence, Shravan Kumar insisted there was no undue pressure involved. The JD(U) also announced that Nishant Kumar, Nitish's son, will soon be inducted into the party.

(With inputs from agencies.)