rs-poll-bjp-toils-to-retain-one-seat-in-jharkhand

Political activity has intensified in Jharkhand as preparations begin for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections expected to be held in May–June 2026.

 

After the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha staked its claim for both seats from the state, the main opposition party, Bharatiya Janata Party, has also begun internal deliberations regarding its strategy.

 

BJP leaders said the party’s top leadership will take a final decision on the matter. However, they expressed confidence that despite not having the numbers on paper, the BJP could still secure at least one seat through effective electoral strategy.

 

Party leaders claimed that when elections are announced, some legislators from opposition parties might extend support to the BJP due to dissatisfaction with the government led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

 

Jharkhand sends six members to the Rajya Sabha. At present, one seat has been vacant since August 4, 2025 following the demise of veteran JMM leader Shibu Soren.

 

Another seat belongs to BJP leader Deepak Prakash, whose term will end on June 21, 2026. Elections for these two seats are expected around May–June this year.

 

Also read: JMM, Cong lock horns over two Rajya Sabha seats in Jharkhand

 

In terms of numbers, the ruling alliance appears to be in a strong position in the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly. The ruling alliance — comprising the JMM, Congress, RJD and CPI (ML) Liberation — together holds 56 MLAs, including 34 from JMM, 16 from Congress, four from RJD and two from CPI-ML.

 

On the other hand, the NDA camp has 24 MLAs—including 21 from the BJP and one each from AJSU Party, JDU and LJP (Ram Vilas)—while one seat is held by Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha.

 

For the Rajya Sabha election, a candidate requires 28 votes (27 plus one) to secure victory. Based on the current numbers, the first seat is almost certain to go to the JMM-led alliance.

 

However, the contest for the second seat could turn interesting. If the ruling alliance remains united, it may make the contest difficult for the BJP, though the opposition party is banking on political strategy and possible cross-voting to improve its chances.