Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Congress Focuses on Strong Voices as 37 Seats Go to Polls

As nominations open for elections to 37 Rajya Sabha seats across 10 states ahead of the March 16 polls, political calculations are intensifying. While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to secure a significant share of the seats, the Congress is projected to win around five — two from Telangana and one each from Haryana, Chhattisgarh and Himachal Pradesh.

Within the Congress, discussions are underway on how best to utilise its limited quota in the Upper House. Senior party leaders have indicated that the focus this time may shift toward selecting candidates known for strong parliamentary performance and debating skills rather than strictly adhering to traditional social representation formulas.

A senior leader noted that while the party has mounted an effective challenge in the Lok Sabha through articulate spokespersons, it lacks comparable “firepower” in the Rajya Sabha. As a result, the emphasis may be on sending seasoned voices who can effectively articulate the Opposition’s stance in Parliament.

Telangana: A Key Battleground

Telangana is shaping up as one of the most closely watched contests. With 40 MLAs required to secure one Rajya Sabha seat, the Congress, which has 66 MLAs along with support from a Left MLA and seven AIMIM MLAs, comfortably ensures one berth.

However, the second seat could see tighter arithmetic. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) holds 36 MLAs, although internal differences reportedly weaken its position. The BJP has eight MLAs. If BRS aligns with AIMIM and possibly secures BJP backing, Congress may face a competitive situation for the second berth.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi is expected to be renominated. There is also speculation about former Supreme Court judge Justice Sudarshan Reddy being considered.

Chhattisgarh: Continuity or Change?

In Chhattisgarh, the retirement of Phulo Devi Netam has opened the field to numerous aspirants. While some within the party favour giving Netam another term, others argue for introducing new leadership.

Several prominent state leaders are under consideration, including T. S. Singh Deo, Mohan Markam, Deepak Baij, Tamradhwaj Sahu and Rama Jeet Bhagat. The final choice may signal whether the party opts for continuity or generational transition.

Haryana: Intense Competition

Haryana’s lone Rajya Sabha seat under the Congress quota has drawn significant interest. Aspirants reportedly include Raj Babbar, Pawan Khera, Supriya Shrinate, Rao Dan Singh, Ashok Tanwar, Rao Narender Singh, Dr Anil Jai Hind and Captain Ajay Yadav.

The crowded field reflects both the limited opportunity and internal dynamics within the state unit.

Himachal Pradesh: Senior Leaders in Fray

In Himachal Pradesh, veteran leaders are in contention. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is said to favour Anand Sharma, while Pratibha Singh, widow of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, remains a strong contender. Thakur Kaul Singh is also being viewed as a possible compromise candidate.

High Command to Take Final Decision

The final selections will rest with the Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge. With consultations intensifying, candidate announcements are expected soon.

As the Rajya Sabha elections approach, Congress faces the challenge of maximising its limited numbers while strengthening its influence in Parliament’s Upper House.