2005 Indian Rajya Sabha elections

The 2005 Indian Rajya Sabha elections took place in stages from April 18 to June 6, 2005, to fill 50 vacancies in the upper house of Parliament. Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies and Union territories, serving staggered six-year terms. These elections were pivotal due to the political realignments and the influence of regional parties amidst a backdrop of significant national issues. The Indian National Congress (INC) formed part of the ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition, which sought to defend its majority against rival parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and various regional parties. The elections reflected the dynamic political landscape of India, highlighting shifts in voter sentiment and coalition politics.