Report by ; andhraportal

Telangana Rajya Sabha Candidates Finalised: Abhishek Singhvi & Vem Narender Reddy

In a key political development, the Congress party has finalised its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections from Telangana, officially choosing senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi and close aide to the state government Vem Narender Reddy to contest the two seats in the Upper House of Parliament. The move ends days of speculation and intense internal deliberations within the party leadership ahead of the biennial polls scheduled for March 16, 2026.

Finalised Candidates from Telangana

The Congress high command on March 5 approved the names of Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Vem Narender Reddy as the official nominees for the Rajya Sabha seats from Telangana. Both candidates will be filing their nomination papers on the last possible day, which is March 5.

Abhishek Manu Singhvi – A seasoned parliamentarian and senior advocate, Singhvi is being renominated for another term. He is expected to retain his seat in the Upper House given the Congress’s majority support in the Telangana Legislative Assembly.
Vem Narender Reddy – A trusted adviser to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and a veteran state politician, Reddy is poised to enter the Rajya Sabha for the first time after his nomination was confirmed by the party hierarchy.

The nominations follow the impending retirement of Abhishek Singhvi and BRS MP K.R. Suresh Reddy from the Rajya Sabha on April 9, 2026, making way for the fresh electoral contest.

Political Context & Party Strategy

The selection process was closely watched as a cluster of party leaders, including several backward class aspirants, sought a ticket to represent Telangana in the Rajya Sabha. In the run-up to the final decision, more than a dozen aspirants were reportedly under consideration, reflecting internal lobbying and strategic discussions before the high command made its call.

Congress leadership appeared to prioritise experience and political alignment, leading to Singhvi’s renomination and Narender Reddy’s elevation over other contenders. Several community leaders expressed disappointment with the final choices, saying backward class representatives were overlooked despite long-standing loyalty to the party.

What Happens Next

Following the finalisation of candidates, the biennial Rajya Sabha elections — set to cover 37 seats across 10 states — will take place on March 16, 2026. Votes will be counted later that same day, and the successful candidates will take their seats following the conclusion of terms for outgoing members.

With strong legislative support in the state assembly, Congress is well-placed to see both its candidates secure victory in Telangana, reinforcing the party’s presence in the Upper House.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Who are the Rajya Sabha candidates from Telangana?
The Congress has finalised Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Vem Narender Reddy as its nominees.

When will the Rajya Sabha elections be held?
Polling is scheduled for March 16, 2026, with vote counting the same day.

Why were these candidates chosen?
Party leaders emphasised experience and strategic political alignment. Singhvi’s renomination reflects his long legislative career, while Reddy’s nomination recognises his role as an adviser to the Telangana Chief Minister.

What happens to the outgoing members?
The current seats will be vacated on April 9, 2026, upon retirement of the incumbent MPs.