Bihar: Prashant Kishor, the Jan Suraaj Party chief, has launched a sharp criticism of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accusing him of being mentally and physically drained and unfit to lead the state. Speaking at a rally in Patna on Friday, Kishor stated that Nitish Kumar’s leadership had become ineffective, and he was no longer capable of handling the challenges of Bihar’s governance.
Kishor pointed out that the Bihar CM had become “tired mentally and physically” and had lost his ability to lead the state effectively. He further remarked, “Now, only eight to ten months remain, so let him enjoy till then.”
This harsh statement from Kishor comes ahead of the much-awaited Bihar Assembly elections, expected later this year, where his Jan Suraaj Party is also set to make its electoral debut. The remarks have added fuel to the ongoing political discourse in the state, as the assembly polls approach.
Kishor, a prominent political strategist, also challenged Nitish Kumar’s command over his own government. He took a direct jibe at the Chief Minister by stating that he would leave his ‘Jan Suraaj’ movement and return to supporting Kumar if the latter could list the names and departments of his council of ministers without referring to any notes. “If Nitish Kumar can come on camera and tell me the names and departments of his council of ministers without looking at a piece of paper, I will leave this movement and again stand in his support,” Kishor said.
In addition to questioning Kumar’s leadership, Kishor also criticized the deteriorating law and order situation in Bihar. He linked the worsening law and order to Nitish Kumar’s mental instability, suggesting that a lack of mental stability in the Chief Minister naturally led to governance failures. “When the CM is not stable in his mind, it is natural for law and order to deteriorate,” he added.
Kishor made these remarks during a rally organized by his Jan Suraaj Party at Patna’s Miller Ground, where he was celebrating the 101st birth anniversary of former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur. Thakur, a revered leader and freedom fighter, was known for his advocacy for social justice and equality.
Addressing the media at the event, Kishor reaffirmed his vision for Bihar, which he believes aligns with the ideals of Karpoori Thakur. He emphasized that while many may celebrate Thakur’s birthday, true homage could be paid only through action that reflects his principles. Kishor reiterated his commitment to building an egalitarian society, as envisioned by Thakur, which would require substantial reforms in various sectors such as education, land distribution, and political participation.“
We have not made any political remarks today,” Kishor clarified. “We are expressing our vision based on the ideas of Karpoori Thakur to create a more egalitarian society. We’ve outlined five key pillars for this vision, and we believe that until there is equality in the distribution of education, land, capital, and political participation, an egalitarian society will remain out of reach.”
Born in 1924 in Darbhanga, Bihar, Karpoori Thakur was a prominent figure in Bihar’s politics, having served as the Chief Minister twice—first from 1970 to 1971 and again from 1977 to 1979. Thakur, who was known for his dedication to social justice, passed away in 1988. In 2024, he was posthumously honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in recognition of his contributions to the nation.
Kishor’s statements are set to add pressure to Nitish Kumar, whose leadership has been increasingly questioned in recent times. As the state prepares for the upcoming election, the battle for political supremacy in Bihar continues to intensify.
