Candidates from the ruling INDIA bloc submitted their nominations for the upcoming biennial Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand, set for June 18. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) nominee Baijnath Ram and Congress candidate Pranav Jha, accompanied by top alliance leaders and MLAs, filed their papers at the Assembly.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Congress central observer Bhupesh Baghel, state government ministers, senior Congress leaders, and RJD MLAs were present during the nomination filing, showcasing unity and expressing confidence in winning both seats. The alliance’s demonstration of solidarity is seen as a strategic move ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls.
Amid prior disagreements within the alliance regarding candidate selection, a joint strategy was eventually agreed upon after discussions at the top level. The alliance, after a meeting at the Chief Minister’s residence, extended joint support to Baijnath Ram and Jha, asserting their strength in securing victories for both candidates.
Leaders from the JMM and Congress affirmed the unity of all alliance MLAs, dispelling concerns of cross-voting during the election. Additionally, BJP-backed candidate Parimal Nathwani, supported by BJP and allied MLAs, also filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha seats in Jharkhand.
Polling for the two Rajya Sabha seats is scheduled for June 18, with the results to be announced on the same day following the vote count.
