Patna: Prashant Kishor has delivered a strong critique of the BJP–JD(U)-led NDA, accusing it of employing “unfair means” to achieve its significant victory in the Bihar assembly elections. This public appearance marked Kishor’s first since the defeat of his newly established Jan Suraaj party. He alleged that extraordinary amounts of state funds were utilized for pre-poll cash transfers, particularly referencing the controversial Das-Hazari scheme. Kishor stated that Rs 40,000 crore was promised or distributed during the election period, asserting it as a historic first for Bihar. He claimed that Rs 10,000 was transferred to 62,000 women under the Das-Hazari initiative, alongside separate allocations for anganwadi workers, ASHA and Mamta workers, migrant laborers, and tola sevaks.
“People will not sacrifice their children’s future for Rs 10,000,” he remarked, indicating that these transfers were more tactical than transformative. Kishor contended that the NDA’s substantial victory stemmed directly from these financial transfers. He questioned the authenticity of certain election results, using the Madhubani seat as an illustration. “A candidate from Upendra Kushwaha’s party won by nearly one lakh votes. Most residents of Madhubani likely do not even recognize the party’s symbol. Similar occurrences are evident throughout the state,” he noted. Kishor acknowledged his party’s defeat but emphasized that Jan Suraaj would persist. He conceded that Jan Suraaj, which contested nearly all seats without winning any, had not successfully engaged voters. “Our three-year movement did not resonate.
The people have accepted the NDA. Now, the NDA and Nitish Kumar must deliver on their pre-election promises,” he stated. He affirmed his commitment to Bihar, pledging to remain a “voice of the people” despite lacking any MLAs. “If the Nitish government fails to keep its promises, the public can turn to Jan Suraaj. We will voice our concerns on the streets,” he declared. Kishor also shared a phone number—9121691216—for individuals to report any unpaid funds from the scheme. Addressing his previous statement about exiting politics if Nitish Kumar secured over 25 seats, Kishor clarified that it no longer applies. “What position should I resign from? I don’t hold any political role.
I advocate for the people of Bihar—how can I stop? Moreover, the Rs 10,000 cash transfer to women was not used by the NDA as a method of vote-buying at that time,” he added. However, he reiterated a conditional statement: “If the government provides Rs 2 lakh each to 1.5 crore women within six months, I will exit politics.” Kishor called on Nitish Kumar to avoid including “corrupt or tainted leaders” in the new government. “Nitish Kumar is largely regarded as honest. He should surround himself with good people, not corrupt individuals.
We have not given you a mandate to exploit while in power.” Despite Jan Suraaj’s electoral setbacks, Kishor affirmed that the movement would carry on: “We will reflect, but we will not retreat. We will fight with increased vigor for the rights of Bihar.”