Jan Suraaj Claims ₹14,000 Crore World Bank Loan Diverted in Bihar Polls
Jan Suraaj, the party led by Prashant Kishor, has alleged that approximately ₹14,000 crore of funds from the World Bank intended for development projects were diverted to finance the recent Bihar assembly election-campaign related cash transfers to women voters. The claim was made by the party’s key spokesperson Pavan Verma, who said the money was pulled “an hour before the poll code” came into effect.
What is Known
The figure of ₹14,000 crore appears to be unverified and based on internal party information. There is no public audit or independent confirmation that World Bank funds were used for the election. Jan Suraaj also noted that the amount of ₹10,000 credited to 1.25 crore women under a state scheme may have been drawn from the broader sum. The party concedes that its information “may or may not be right”.
Political Context and Implications
The allegation comes a day after Jan Suraaj failed to win any seats in the election and accused the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of using pre-poll cash transfers to influence voters. The claim touches on the sensitive area of election funding and welfare scheme timing. If proved, it could trigger investigations into fund usage and electoral integrity.
What Remains Unclear
There is no documentation publicly available showing the World Bank loan in question was earmarked for Bihar or that it was redirected toward election-related transfers. Neither the World Bank nor the Bihar state government has issued a statement verifying the diversion. Until a formal inquiry is conducted, the allegation remains a political claim rather than a verifiable fact.
