President Draupadi Murmu has nominated senior journalist-turned-politician Harivansh Narayan Singh to the Rajya Sabha, a day after his previous term ended on April 9.
The decision, taken under the provisions of Article 80 of the Constitution, has sparked discussions from Delhi to Bihar.
Singh’s previous term in the Senate ended this week and it is worth noting that the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) did not formally renominate him this time. This has led to speculation that his parliamentary career may be over. However, the President’s nomination has effectively reset this narrative, ensuring its continuation in Parliament.
Under Article 80, the President has the right to nominate up to 12 members to the House of Representatives from areas such as literature, science, arts and social service. Singh, who has a long background in journalism and public life, has now been returned to the House under this constitutional provision.
First elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2014 with the support of the JD(U), Singh has remained an active parliamentary figure. In 2018, he was elected Deputy Speaker of the House, a position he retained after being re-elected in 2020. During his tenure, he was credited with maintaining procedural balance and decorum in the House.
Being close to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Singh has successfully navigated shifting political alliances without abandoning his constitutional role. Even as the JD(U) distanced itself from the NDA in previous years, it had refused to step down from its position as vice-president, maintaining that the post was constitutional and not political.
His attendance at the opening ceremony of the new Parliament building, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had previously attracted attention, especially amid the opposition boycott. This incident raised speculation about his position within the broader political spectrum.
With his re-nomination, political observers see not just a personal milestone for Singh, but also a sign that his experience and institutional role are still valued in New Delhi’s evolving political landscape.
Surendra Kishore, a Patna-based political observer who is close to Singh, said his nomination indicates that his political acumen has impressed the prime minister. He added: “His re-nomination is an award for his dedication, values and thought.”
