The Strategist with a Mission
Prashant Kishor, widely recognized as a political strategist, has a reputation for being a key figure behind several successful electoral campaigns. Known for his sharp acumen and innovative strategies, Kishor has carved a niche for himself in Indian politics. However, his journey has now taken a significant turn. From the backrooms of political campaigns, Kishor has stepped onto the frontlines by officially launching his political outfit, the Jan Suraaj Party, on October 3. His vision? To transform Bihar, one of India’s most underdeveloped states, into a leading state within a decade.
Kishor’s transition from a strategist to a political leader signifies his desire to address Bihar’s chronic backwardness. His journey over the past two years, walking from village to village to understand the pulse of the people, underscores his hands-on approach. Unlike many political leaders who remain distanced from the grassroots, Kishor seems committed to tackling Bihar’s challenges head-on.
Launch of Jan Suraaj Party: A New Political Force in Bihar
The official launch of the Jan Suraaj Party was held in Patna on October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. The event, held at the Veterinary College Ground, was attended by several prominent figures, including former Union Minister Devendra Prasad Yadav, diplomat-turned-politician Pavan Varma, and ex-MP Monazir Hassan. The presence of such personalities underscores the broad appeal Kishor’s party is seeking to cultivate, attracting figures with significant experience in governance and public service.
Kishor also named Manoj Bharti, a former Indian Foreign Service officer from Madhubani, as the working president of the party. Bharti’s distinguished career in diplomacy, having served as India’s ambassador to several countries, brings a wealth of experience to Jan Suraaj. His leadership role, which will continue until organizational elections in March 2025, highlights the party’s commitment to a transparent and democratic internal structure.
Vision for Bihar: Aiming for Top Ten
In an exclusive interview, Kishor made it clear that his primary focus is Bihar. He envisions the state climbing into the ranks of India’s top ten states within a decade. This ambitious goal is central to the Jan Suraaj Party’s mission, and Kishor believes it is achievable through a combination of good governance, grassroots engagement, and a break from the traditional politics of the state.
Kishor emphasized that his aim is not merely to reform the political system but to address the deep-rooted issues of societal backwardness and poverty. “I have been walking on foot from village to village for the past two years. I will continue walking and explaining to the people,” he said, highlighting the importance of engaging with the masses directly. His commitment to ground-level interaction is a stark contrast to the top-down approach often seen in Indian politics.
The Challenge of Uplifting Society
Prashant Kishor acknowledges that the path ahead is fraught with difficulties. The biggest challenge, he says, is to make people realize the extent of their backwardness and poverty. He believes that while politics is a way to bring about societal change, it is not the only path. His emphasis on walking from village to village and engaging with people reflects his belief that change must start with awareness.
Kishor’s vision is not limited to electoral success. He sees Jan Suraaj as a platform for social transformation, with a focus on empowering communities and involving new leadership. He stated that while he may not personally be able to take on every challenge, he is focused on handling the most difficult tasks, leaving other responsibilities to capable members of the party. “Those who have joined us will be given work,” he said, emphasizing a collaborative approach to leadership.
A New Kind of Political Leadership
One of Kishor’s key messages is that the Jan Suraaj Party will be led by people who genuinely represent the interests of the public. He confidently claimed that the individuals associated with the party have a better image than those currently in power or in opposition. According to Kishor, the party has been careful to select members based on their contributions to society and their dedication to community service.
“There is no difference in my work before and now. The only difference is that we are not working for any leader or party, but for the public,” Kishor explained. He sees himself as a strategist for the people, not for political leaders, underscoring his focus on public service over personal or party gain.
Electoral Strategy: Bihar First, Expansion Later
When asked about the party’s plans to contest elections outside Bihar, Kishor was clear that his focus is currently solely on the state. For now, his priority is to improve Bihar’s standing within India, and only after achieving that goal will he consider expanding the party’s reach beyond the state. He said, “Until Bihar is improved and included among the top ten states, I will not look beyond it.”
Kishor’s emphasis on Bihar also reflects his critique of the state’s current political landscape. He has pointed out that a “politics of fear” dominates Bihar, where people are often afraid to speak out or challenge the status quo. His party, he claims, seeks to break this cycle by empowering people to take control of their own futures.
Looking Ahead: Will Jan Suraaj Reshape Bihar?
Prashant Kishor’s foray into active politics with the Jan Suraaj Party is a significant development in Bihar’s political landscape. His emphasis on clean politics, grassroots involvement, and a focus on development sets him apart from the state’s traditional power structures. Kishor’s ability to bring about real change will depend on how well his party can connect with the people and deliver on its promises of transformation.
In a state long plagued by underdevelopment, corruption, and political stagnation, Kishor’s Jan Suraaj Party offers a new vision. Whether this vision translates into electoral success and actual development remains to be seen, but Kishor’s determination and track record suggest that he is ready for the challenge.
(With inputs from agencies)
