The Times of India
Elections 2026Patna / The Times of India
In a significant move, Bihar Congress leader Rajesh Ram has called out three party MLAs, issuing them show-cause notices after they chose to abstain from the Rajya Sabha elections. This decision has led to the unfortunate defeat of the Grand Alliance candidate. The involved MLAsSurendra Kushwaha, Manoj Biswas, and Manohar Prasad Singhnow have a week to defend their actions.
In an almost ceremonial fashion, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has taken steps towards securing a historic fourth term as the national president of his party, with his nomination papers officially submitted in Delhi by senior party leaders.
In a recent statement, the BJP revealed that the selection of Nitish Kumar's successor as Chief Minister of Bihar will be a collaborative effort within the NDA, ensuring that his approval is a crucial part of the process. This announcement comes on the heels of speculation surrounding Nitish's nomination to the Rajya Sabha.
In the face of a significant statewide LPG cylinder shortage, Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib stands resolute, maintaining its daily langar service for thousands in need.
In a heartfelt response to the devastating house fire in Indore that claimed the lives of six residents from Kishanganj, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the bereaved families.
During his visit to Gaya for the Samriddhi Yatra, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will shine a spotlight on the Bihar Centre of Excellence dedicated to the Millet Value Chain. He will engage with local farmers, experience the innovative practices of water-efficient millet farming, and assess the advancements of existing initiatives.
During the dynamic 'Udyog Varta' meeting, Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit called on government departments to expedite their assistance for investors. The dialogue revolved around enhancing industrial investments and tackling on-the-ground challenges. Presenting innovative proposals in sectors like artificial intelligence, healthcare, and infrastructure, entrepreneurs received assurances from the CS for decisive action to elevate Bihar's industrial landscape.
In a significant stride toward progress, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled 261 schemes totaling Rs 326 crore during his Samriddhi Yatra. Focusing on the dual pillars of development and job creation, he closely examined ongoing initiatives, including the promising Kajra solar power plant.
In a significant ruling, the Patna High Court has awarded bail to Anant Singh, a legislator from the JD(U), regarding the murder case of Dularchand Yadav. Singh's legal team contended that he became a target of political maneuvering, citing evidence that casts doubt on the claim he fired the fatal shot.
In a crucial assessment of border security, Additional Director General Rekha Lohani of the Sashastra Seema Bal visited Raxaul to discuss the India-Nepal border situation. Her visit underscored the importance of heightened vigilance and strategies to alleviate traffic bottlenecks.
In a surprising turn of events, a district magistrate from Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, has found himself on the receiving end of a Rs 10,000 fine imposed by a Sasaram court. This penalty arises from his failure to reply to a show-cause notice within the stipulated 14-day time frame.
Patna High Court granted bail to JD(U) leader Anant Singh in connection with the murder of a Jan Suraaj supporter. Singh, who won the Mokama assembly seat while in jail, was accused of orchestrating the killing during a clash on October 30. The DGP had previously stated the death was due to cardiac and respiratory failure, not a gunshot.
Bihar's political landscape is bracing itself as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar prepares to secure an unprecedented fifth term as the JD(U) national president, with nomination submissions expected on Thursday. Political insiders suggest he will go uncontested, paving the way for a smooth election on March 24.
In a strategic move to enhance law enforcement, Bihar's police department underwent a noteworthy leadership overhaul on Wednesday. Six police officers, including four from the IPS cadre, received new assignments.
The Bihar Industries Association (BIA) had a split response to the BERC's latest electricity tariff announcement. They appreciated the relief granted to specific consumer groups but voiced dissatisfaction regarding the absence of reductions in industrial tariffs, particularly with high KVA charges. There was a shared expectation that enhanced performance from power companies would translate into tangible benefits for industrial consumers.
In a heart-wrenching story from the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, a young tigress who wandered too close to human settlements has been discovered dead. Forest officials are investigating the possibility of illness or starvation as she was in the process of separating from her mother.
The RJD grapples with a critical situation regarding Dhaka MLA Faisal Rahman's absence from the Rajya Sabha elections, resulting in a significant loss for the opposition. Taking action against Rahman could jeopardize Tejashwi Yadav's role as Leader of Opposition, given that the party requires 25 seats for that status.
After a harrowing discovery, authorities rescued sixty-two bonded labourers from an illegal brick kiln in Gaya, shedding light on a hidden 30-year-old practice. This revelation has raised eyebrows among experts, who are questioning the local officials oversight, including the BLOs and revenue clerks.
To ensure a harmonious Eid celebration, Madhubani district has mobilized more than 800 officials to 432 key areas. High-ranking officers will be actively patrolling while undercover officers keep an eye out for any potential unrest. A dedicated control room remains operational around the clock, ready to tackle any issues or disperse rumors swiftly.
In a stirring ceremony at Danapur Cantonment, ex-servicemen from Bihar gathered to bid a heartfelt adieu to Major General Vikas Bhardwaj, the outgoing General Officer Commanding of the Jharkhand and Bihar Sub Area. Veterans paid tribute to his remarkable service and his dedicated efforts to uplift the welfare of veterans and families of fallen soldiers.
In a shocking turn of events in Asia village, Muzaffarpur, 60-year-old Jagatveer Rai was tragically killed by a gunshot wound amidst a violent confrontation between locals and law enforcement. Authorities reported that gunfire erupted from both sides as police moved to arrest a suspect under the Pocso Act.
In Patna, the battle for domestic gas supply rages on, as residents find themselves caught in a frustrating cycle of long wait times and unsatisfactory communication. Despite assurances from officials of improved inventory levels, many households still endure the annoyance of vendors evasive responses.
At a recent national symposium, the challenges associated with India's aging demographic took center stage, advocating for a societal shift towards honoring and protecting our elderly population. Meanwhile, agricultural specialists encouraged farmers to embrace innovative beekeeping techniques to boost their entrepreneurial ventures and financial stability.
On Wednesday, Patna became a hotspot for student activism as two spirited protests unfolded. The first group rallied in support of UGC's newly proposed anti-discrimination policies, making their way toward Raj Bhawan but were met with police barricades. Meanwhile, a separate gathering of BPSC teacher recruitment candidates voiced their frustrations over the prolonged delays of TRE 4.
In a bold move against corruption, Bihar police have begun an extensive operation against LPG black marketing, confiscating more than 400 cylinders and apprehending 21 suspects in various districts. Authorities have taken decisive action by sealing four restaurants in Patna caught misusing domestic cylinders, while ramping up inspections of dealers and food outlets.
The Kisan Mela 2026 in Bhagalpur wrapped up with a flourish, spearheaded by Bihar Agricultural University over an inspiring three-day celebration of agriculture innovation and farmer community. The focus was on elevating pulse and oilseed yields to bolster both food security and farmers' livelihoods.
In a tragic accident near Kulhariya village in Bhojpur district, a devastating crash involving a school van, a truck, and an autorickshaw resulted in injuries to at least 12 individuals, including eight young students aged between five and ten.
At a vibrant public rally, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar captured attention by placing a reassuring hand on Deputy CM Samrat Choudharys shoulder, proclaiming, 'From here on, we will all witness real progress.' This gesture has ignited discussions about Kumar's ambition in the national arena while positioning Choudhary, a prominent OBC leader, as a likely successor for the chief ministerial role.
In a notabledecision for residents, Bihar's electricity consumers can breathe easy as there will be no tariff increases for the upcoming 2026-27 financial year. The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) turned down any plans for hikes, ensuring stability for 2.22 crore households. Furthermore, while assessing the needs of power distribution companies, the commission has prioritized keeping consumer costs in check.
During a recent conference, Bihar's Planning and Development Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav underscored the importance of precise data for meeting Sustainable Development Goals. Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit echoed this sentiment, pointing to the need for dependable data to guide policies and the commitment to 'Leave No One Behind.
In a stunning turn of events, three Congress MLAs chose to abstain from the Rajya Sabha elections, ultimately sealing the fate of the Grand Alliance in Bihar. In response, state party president Rajesh Ram is set to compile a comprehensive report for the high command that will spotlight these pivotal abstentions.
Patliputra University celebrated its 8th anniversary with vibrant festivities, showcasing the incredible journey since separating from Magadh University. The institution reaffirmed its dedication to excellence in education and research while announcing its upcoming move to a state-of-the-art campus in Bakhtiyarpur. Significant advancements were highlighted, including the integration of NEP 2020 and the formation of essential academic and administrative frameworks.

21 C