The Indian National Congress announced seven candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for June 18, 2026 [1].
These nominations are critical as the party seeks to retain its influence and maintain its seat count in the Upper House. The biennial elections will take place across 10 states [1].
Mallikarjun Kharge, president of the Indian National Congress, filed his nomination on June 4, 2026 [1]. He submitted his papers at the Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru, Karnataka [2].
The party's slate includes a mix of established leaders and strategic appointments. Along with Kharge, the party has cleared Pawan Khera and Mansoor Ali Khan for seats representing Karnataka [5].
The decision to renominate Kharge reflects the party's intent to keep its top leadership embedded in the legislative process. The Congress party is fielding a total of seven candidates across the participating states to ensure a strong presence in the Upper House [1].
Officials said that the nomination process is proceeding according to the schedule established for the June 18 polls [1]. The candidates will now campaign for the support of the members of the state legislative assemblies who will cast the votes.
“Congress announced seven candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections”
The nomination of high-profile leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge and Pawan Khera indicates a strategy by the Congress party to consolidate its legislative power. By prioritizing key party officials for these seats, the party ensures that its primary political strategists have a direct platform in the Upper House to challenge the government's agenda during the 2026 session.
