Prashant Kishor Launches Jan Suraaj Party Ahead of Bihar Polls
Renowned political strategist Prashant Kishor formally launched his political party, Jan Suraaj, marking his long-anticipated entry into electoral politics. Ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, the Jan Suraaj Party, under the leadership of retired Indian Foreign Service officer Manoj Bharti, will contest all seats in the state, offering a fresh alternative to existing political parties.
Focus on Ending Liquor Prohibition and Boosting Education
During the party’s launch, Prashant Kishor announced that if elected, the Jan Suraaj Party would lift the existing prohibition on liquor in Bihar. Kishor emphasized that the revenue generated from lifting the ban would be used to improve the state’s education sector, ensuring better facilities and opportunities for students.
Shift in Bihar’s Political Paradigm
Prashant Kishor highlighted the need to shift Bihar’s electoral focus from traditional caste-based and populist voting patterns to a future-oriented vision. He has been vocal about providing an alternative to the long-standing dominance of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar politics. “In Bihar, for the last 25 to 30 years, people have been voting for RJD or BJP. That compulsion should end,” he stated, adding that his party’s leadership would be determined by those who have worked with the group over the last two years.
Jan Suraaj: From Initiative to Political Party
Kishor’s journey to launch the Jan Suraaj Party began over two years ago when he started a statewide campaign to raise awareness about the issues that should be at the forefront of elections. His aim was to educate voters on improving key parameters such as education, agriculture, and employment while urging them not to vote under pressure from established political dynasties.
Background and Motivations
Kishor’s foray into politics comes after a brief stint with the ruling Janata Dal United (JDU) and a failed attempt to join the Congress in 2022. Following extensive discussions with the Congress, he declined a position in the party’s “Empowered Action Group,” citing the lack of “collective will to fix deep-rooted structural problems.” This led him to focus on his own initiative, which has now evolved into a political party.
A New Political Alternative for Bihar
The Jan Suraaj Party, with its focus on governance, transparency, and economic development, seeks to break the cycle of traditional politics in Bihar. Prashant Kishor has set ambitious goals, including visiting every village in the state to educate residents on improving their living standards and empowering them to vote for a better future.
As Bihar gears up for the upcoming elections, Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party aims to challenge the status quo and reshape the political landscape with its promise of reform and a new vision for the state.