Rajya Sabha Polls: Nathwani Triumphs in Jharkhand, ZPM Secures First-Ever Seat from Mizoram

The latest Rajya Sabha elections delivered notable political developments in Jharkhand and Mizoram on Thursday, with cross-voting influencing the result in Jharkhand and the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) achieving a historic milestone by winning its first-ever seat in the Upper House.

In Jharkhand, Independent candidate Parimal Nathwani , backed by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) , emerged victorious in a closely fought contest for one of the state's two Rajya Sabha seats. Nathwani secured 28 votes , defeating Congress nominee Pranav Jha , who received 20 votes .

The outcome drew attention as the BJP-led NDA lacked the required numerical strength in the state assembly to secure victory on its own, indicating support from legislators outside its ranks. The result triggered accusations from the Congress, which alleged political maneuvering and questioned the circumstances behind the cross-voting.

The second Rajya Sabha seat from Jharkhand was won by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate Baidyanath Ram , who polled 30 votes . Three ballots were declared invalid during the counting process.

In Mizoram, the ruling ZPM registered a landmark victory as party candidate K. Laltluangkima won the lone Rajya Sabha seat from the state. He secured 26 votes , comfortably defeating the opposition candidate from the Mizo National Front (MNF) .

The win marks the first time the ZPM will have representation in the Rajya Sabha, further strengthening the party's political standing since assuming power in the northeastern state.

At the national level, the election results provide a modest boost to the NDA's strength in the Rajya Sabha. The ruling alliance continues to improve its position in the Upper House as it seeks broader parliamentary support for key legislative and constitutional initiatives in the future.