The Times of India

JD(U) workers are protesting Nitish Kumar's Rajya Sabha nomination for a second day, expressing dissatisfaction through a postcard campaign. Tensions flared as a poster of PM Modi and Kumar was defaced. Discontent stems from the alliance with BJP and fears of Kumar leaving his Bihar tenure prematurely, potentially impacting prohibition and public trust.

JD(U) workers protested outside CM Nitish Kumar's residence and party office, expressing anger and disbelief over his Rajya Sabha nomination. Alleging a conspiracy and pressure, some threatened self-immolation and vandalized property, demanding to meet their leader and questioning the authenticity of his social media posts.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded Nitish Kumar's tenure as Bihar CM, calling it a golden period. He highlighted Kumar's role in bringing Bihar out of 'jungle raj' and driving development. Shah also praised Kumar's unblemished political career spanning decades, marking his return to national politics via the Rajya Sabha.

Nitish Kumar filed Rajya Sabha nomination, signaling an end to his Bihar CM tenure despite family and party objections. This move is seen as paving the way for a BJP-led government in Patna. His decision has sparked unrest within JD(U), with workers protesting and demanding he reconsider. Discussions within the NDA are underway regarding the next CM.

JD(U) workers protested outside CM Nitish Kumar's residence and party office, alleging a conspiracy and pressure behind his Rajya Sabha nomination. Some threatened self-immolation, vandalized furniture, and questioned the authenticity of his social media posts, demanding to meet their leader and expressing their dissent.

Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav claims Nitish Kumar's Rajya Sabha nomination is under duress, asserting the Bihar CM was 'hijacked'. Yadav alleges the recent political shift betrays the public mandate and aims to suppress 'bahujan' politics, with the BJP pushing its agenda. He predicts the next CM will be a 'rubber stamp'.

As Bihar looks back on Nitish Kumar's 20 years in leadership, the narrative intertwines with themes of law and order, infrastructure rejuvenation, and pivotal social initiatives, particularly in advancing women's rights. While political landscapes shifted around him, he steadfastly championed consistent state-building efforts rather than chasing fleeting industrial trends.

Nitish Kumar's nomination for the Rajya Sabha may herald the rise of a BJP Chief Minister in Bihar, as five key playersSamrat Choudhary, Nityanand Rai, Dilip Jaiswal, Sanjay Jaiswal, and Janak Ramvie for attention. Each contender, with their distinct caste affiliations and political backgrounds, could pave new paths in the state's governance landscape.

Tragedy strikes as Captain Ashish Kumar, from Bettiah, is feared dead after an oil tanker attack in the Gulf of Oman, with bones recovered from his cabin. Meanwhile, a Patna native in Bahrain recounts the terrifying experience of a missile interception near a US naval base, leaving her and her family shaken and seeking to return home.

In the quiet lanes of Gaura village, Bhojpur, a violent episode unfolded as three suspects were arrested following a shooting that left local resident Akhilesh Thakur, 34, injured. The assault occurred outside Thakur's residence on Wednesday night, where he was ambushed by six armed attackers.

In a recent incident in Bettiah, authorities arrested 25-year-old Khurshid Alam for suspicious communications with mobile numbers linked to Pakistan. His devices revealed not only chats with numerous (+92) country-coded contacts but also an array of QR codes tied to questionable financial transactions.

In a tragic unfolding of events, a 16-year-old has been apprehended in Purnia in connection with the suspected rape and murder of a 13-year-old girl. Her lifeless body was found suspended in a bamboo grove, revealing signs of strangulation and other injuries.

The recent nomination of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to the Rajya Sabha has ignited fervent discussions among political circles, raising questions about the JD(U)'s roadmap for the 2025 elections. Party workers voiced apprehensions regarding a potential pivot towards national politics, fearing this might empower the BJP and disrupt the state's political stability.

In a somber turn of events, Holi festivities in Patna and nearby regions were marred by a series of road accidents that led to the tragic loss of six lives and left seven others injured. A devastating motorcycle crash on the BihtaSarmera State Highway resulted in three fatalities, exacerbated by a reckless vehicle that struck recklessly through the celebrations.

The political scene in Bihar is electric, with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar poised to step down as he eyes a Rajya Sabha seat. Business leaders are tentatively hopeful, anticipating that a BJP-led government could usher in rapid development, while dissenting voices caution against setbacks and the uncertainty this transition might bring.

In a surprising political twist, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has submitted his nomination for the Rajya Sabha, hinting at the end of his tenure as CM. Despite facing resistance from both his family and party members, he reaffirmed his longstanding dream of serving in the parliamentary arena.

In a significant step toward improving healthcare access, Bihar is introducing 124 new Basic Life Support ambulances, elevating the fleet to a remarkable 2,065. This initiative is particularly vital for rural communities, where Advanced Life Support ambulances will function as mobile ICUs, providing critical care.

In a devastating accident on NH-27 in Madhubani, a Haryana-based SUV carrying seven passengers tragically swerved into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a truck. Four lives were lost, and three others were left in critical condition. The victims, hailed from Kurukshetra, were on a leisurely trip when fate took a grim turn.

Nitish Kumar's rise in Bihar politics reads like a thrilling novel, filled with shifting alliances and clever strategies. Starting in student activism next to Lalu Prasad, he embraced socialist values, weathered multiple electoral storms, and eventually made his mark in the Lok Sabha.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar confirmed his Rajya Sabha nomination, sparking political uproar. Opposition leaders criticized the move, calling it a leadership coup and political abduction orchestrated by the BJP, betraying the people's mandate. Kumar assured his commitment to Bihar's development remains unchanged.

Janata Dal (United) supporters gathered to protest Nitish Kumar's move to the Rajya Sabha. They want him to continue as Bihar Chief Minister. Supporters suggested his son, Nishant Kumar, be nominated to the Upper House. Despite protests, Nitish Kumar will file his Rajya Sabha nomination. He stated his commitment to Bihar remains steadfast.

Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is poised for a Rajya Sabha move, signaling a major political shift. This transition is expected to pave the way for the BJP to install its own CM in the state. Nitish's son, Nishant Kumar, may enter politics and join the government. The BJP, long a junior partner, appears set to take the helm.

Six children, five girls and one boy, tragically drowned in a water-filled pit in Bihar's East Champaran district. The incident occurred in Lohargava village when one girl slipped while bathing and others jumped in to save her. Bodies were recovered and sent for post-mortem.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, is reportedly set to join the Janata Dal (United) on Holi, with party ministers indicating he will be given a significant role. This move follows persistent speculation and demands from party workers and youth for his active political entry.

In preparation for a vibrant and safe Holi, officials in Buxar are ramping up security protocols. Law enforcement and magistrates have been assigned throughout the district, maintaining visibility until March 4. Authorities anticipate heightened activity around Holika Dahan, ensuring fire safety measures with fire trucks ready for action.

Celebrated Bhojpuri artist Bharat Sharma Vyas has voiced his strong disapproval of the rising trend of suggestive Holi songs, claiming they pose a significant threat to both the Bhojpuri language and societal values.

Bihari migrants in West Asia face escalating conflict, with sirens and falling debris causing fear. Many are seeking evacuation, while families back home anxiously await updates. Despite the tension, some expatriates report relative safety and praise the UAE's efficient management of the situation, offering a glimmer of reassurance amidst the turmoil.

In an unwavering commitment to integrity, Bihar's Vigilance Bureau ramped up its anti-corruption campaign, launching 28 investigations early in 2026 related to bribery and illicit wealth. Despite facing manpower challenges, the bureau has already secured four convictions this year, with a target set to exceed 30 by the end of the year.

In a recent development, a Patna court has once again delayed the bail hearing for Manish Ranjan, the proprietor of a girls' hostel connected to the tragic case of a NEET students alleged sexual assault and subsequent death.

The NDA is poised to secure all five Rajya Sabha seats from Bihar, with Chirag Paswan expressing confidence in their numbers. Allies like LJP(RV), RLM, and HAM(S) are seeking nominations. Meanwhile, the RJD faces an uphill battle to win a seat due to insufficient MLA support, despite Tejashwi Yadav's authorization to select a candidate.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has voiced strong disapproval of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's intended demonstration against the electoral roll revision. Party officials accuse her of engaging in appeasement politics, fearing that the revision may lead to the elimination of illegal votes.

In response to the rising conflict in West Asia, the Bihar government has rolled out a 24/7 helpline at 72177 88114, specially designed to support the approximately 200,000 residents from Bihar working in the region. This initiative is crucial for ensuring the welfare of migrant workers and their families, providing them with the necessary guidance and reassurance as tensions escalate.

During an enlightening seminar at Patna Medical College and Hospital, specialists highlighted the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, complemented by timely vaccinations and appropriate solid foods. Attendees were encouraged to make their children's nutrition and health a top priority. The event also showcased the joy of healthy infants, with five-month-old Aryan Kumar receiving special recognition.

As the vibrant festival of Holi approaches, Bihar Police are stepping up their game! Quick Response Teams and additional officers are strategically positioned in hotspots like Arwal, Nawada, and Gaya to ensure a safe celebration. With last year's incidents in mind, the police are implementing strict protocols against rowdy behavior, unauthorized party crowds, and excessively loud music.

In Gopalganj, the unfolding tragedy of a bridge collapse has led to the suspension of three engineers responsible for the project. Preliminary investigations reveal that subpar materials and lax oversight contributed to this disaster. The district magistrate has called for decisive actions, urging the blacklisting of Bapudham Construction.

As Patna prepares for the vibrant festivities of Holika Dahan on March 3, the city has established more than 400 bonfire locations. Yet, the upcoming lunar eclipse calls for the temporary closure of temples and the implementation of special purification rituals.

During a recent visit to Patna, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar took a close look at pivotal urban infrastructure ventures, particularly the underground drain and road projects in Saidpur and Bakarganj.

In Madhubani, the District Magistrate is calling on over 180,000 pensioners to swiftly finalize their annual life certification to ensure they remain eligible for their essential pension funds. This necessary step guards against any interruptions in payments.

In anticipation of the bustling travel rush following Holi celebrations, Indian Railways is launching more than 58 special trains throughout the East Central Railway zone beginning March 5. This initiative is designed to ease the travel experience for passengers, with popular routes such as Patna to New Delhi and Danapur to Anand Vihar benefiting from increased train frequencies.

Gaya authorities have heightened security for Holi, with intensified patrolling in populated areas and near the railway station. Social media is being monitored, and the fire brigade is on alert. Hospitals are prepared for emergencies, and power/water supply is ensured. Special attention is given to the 'Matka Phod' Holi event on March 5, with organizers briefed on safety.