Digvijaya to skip 3rd Rajya Sabha term:Ex-CM of MP to remain full-time active in state politics; Kamal Nath, Arun Kamleshwar in race to replace him

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh will not seek a third term in the Rajya Sabha, as his tenure ends on April 9. Singh, who is serving his second term, has informed the party leadership that he prefers to remain active full-time in state politics. Full-time focus on Madhya Pradesh ahead of 2028 assembly elections With Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections scheduled in 2028, Singh plans to dedicate the next two-and-a-half years entirely to strengthening Congress at the grassroots level. Beginning May this year, he will tour the state extensively, preparing the ground for the party ahead of the polls. Strategic plan for next two-and-a-half years Sources indicate that Singh is formulating a step-by-step strategy to ensure Congress’s success in the assembly elections. His plan includes: Delhi presentation on organizational strengthening Last month, Singh presented his strategy for party strengthening at Congress headquarters in Delhi. The meeting included state in-charge Harish Chaudhary, PCC President Jitu Patwari, and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar. Singh emphasized phased state-wide visits to ensure direct engagement with workers at all levels. Planned organizational tours: Rajya Sabha seat now open: Key contenders Following Singh’s decision, several prominent leaders are eyeing the vacant Rajya Sabha seat from Madhya Pradesh, including: There are discussions within the party to send Kamal Nath to the Rajya Sabha while appointing him as National Treasurer, giving him a prominent role in central politics. Kamal Nath has held key portfolios such as Union Commerce Industry Minister, Urban Development Minister, Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Environment Forest Minister (Independent Charge), and Tourism Minister (Additional Charge). He has been elected nine consecutive times to Lok Sabha from Chhindwara and served as Madhya Pradesh CM from December 2018 to March 2020. Political strategy and Influence Senior journalist Dinesh Gupta noted that Singh’s active engagement reflects his intent to remain relevant in mainstream politics. By reviving Dalit agendas and other initiatives in Madhya Pradesh, Singh is subtly exerting influence on the party, ensuring senior leadership is given prominence. Gupta added that Singh’s focus on the state is consistent with his past activism. Prior to 2018, he led the Narmada Yatra and remained active during his 15-month tenure as CM. While party responsibilities have never required him to manage other states, his continued involvement in Madhya Pradesh also pressures the party to support senior leaders and strengthen organizational effectiveness.