Ujjwal Nikam Hails Rajya Sabha Nomination as a Life Milestone

Celebrated public prosecutor sees new role as both an honour and a national responsibility

New Delhi – Eminent government lawyer and public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam has described his nomination to the Rajya Sabha as both an honour and a new challenge. Speaking to media on Sunday, Nikam said, “This is a milestone in my life and career. Maharashtra has always supported me, but now I hope to earn the affection of the entire nation.”

The senior advocate, who led the prosecution in landmark cases such as the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the 1993 Bombay bombings, was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu on July 13. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, calling the nomination a “great achievement.”

Nikam revealed that he was formally informed only on Sunday, following the release of the official gazette. “Until today, I had no idea. But I did have a conversation with the Prime Minister yesterday,” he added.

Reflecting on his journey from Jalgaon in Maharashtra to the national stage, Nikam recounted beginning his legal practice in a small town before moving to Mumbai in 1993. Since then, he has become a prominent legal figure, particularly known for his work in high-profile terrorism and criminal trials.

With his entry into the Upper House, Nikam brings decades of legal acumen to the Parliament at a time when legal reforms and judicial efficiency are critical national discussions. Alongside Nikam, three others—former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Kerala teacher C. Sadanandan Master, and historian Meenakshi Jain—were also nominated to the Rajya Sabha.