PATNA: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar on Monday dismissed media reports that he is willing to go to the Rajya Sabha, and said such reports are ‘unfounded’ and ‘mere speculations.’
"Yese Hi Kuchh Bhi Chhapate Rahta Hai. Hum Bhi Dekh Kar Aascharyachakit Rahte Hai (Casually, anything gets published these days. I too remain surprised after seeing such reports)," Nitish said on being asked whether he was going to the Rajya Sabha. He was responding to media queries outside the Patna Sadar block office where he had gone to cast his vote in the Bihar legislative council local authority election.
There was a strong speculation in a section of media and state’s political circles about Nitish quitting the CM’s chair and going to the Rajya Sabha since March 30 when the CM, during an informal chat with media persons, reportedly said that he wishes to go to the Rajya Sabha. The CM had said this after a newsman asked whether he wished to go to the Rajya Sabha after being the members of three other legislative houses namely Lok Sabha, Bihar Vidhan Sabha and Bihar Vidhan Parishad.
Nitish’s comment during an informal chat created ripples in the state’s political circles and speculations were rife that Nitish may become the chairperson of the Rajya Sabha after getting elected as the country’s vice president.
Nitish’s party JD(U) had earlier categorically clarified that the CM, who is currently serving his fourth term in office, would complete his five-year-tenure in 2025 and he was not going anywhere. Nitish’s latest clarification on the issue now may put to rest all such speculations.
On being asked about the prospect of the ruling NDA candidates in the legislative council polls for 24 local authority seats, Nitish said he was hopeful that voters would ensure victory of the NDA candidates. “Result of an election depends on voters,” he said.
On being asked about the assembly by-polls in Bochahan seat, Nitish said he would go to campaign for the NDA candidate in Bochahan on March 10.
