TV9 Digital hosted a ‘Baithak’ (meeting) in Begusarai, Bihar, as part of a series of events leading up to the state assembly elections. Manoj Bharti, the state president of Jan Suraaj, Prashant Kishor’s political party, was a key participant. Bharti clarified that Jan Suraaj will not be forming any alliances with other parties and that the party’s MLAs will decide on the Chief Ministerial candidate.
Bharti shared his observations from his time in the foreign service, noting how Bihar often felt like a century behind due to its restrictive social structures and limited perspectives. He contrasted this with other countries where individuals are generally aware of their rights and boundaries, which he believes is crucial for a functioning society. He attributed Bihar’s issues to a lack of protection of citizens’ rights and a general disregard for them. He also cited a lack of honest leadership as a factor in Bihar’s 40-year history of being a backward state, suggesting Jan Suraaj offers a new, alternative approach, uniting individuals with varied viewpoints to achieve a common goal for the state’s progress.
Addressing criticisms that Prashant Kishor is exploiting the emotions of Bihar’s people, Bharti countered by asking about Kishor’s ambitions and what he was unable to accomplish. He implied that Kishor’s departure from Nitish Kumar, given their past relationship, must have been based on specific reasons. Bharti stated that Kishor left because he saw that the leader he supported did not act in the interest of the people, and as a result, Kishor decided to directly interact with the public.
Bharti explained that in 2015, Kishor recognized the lack of commitment from Modi towards improving Bihar, which led to an initiative to oust the BJP and form a coalition of other parties for the state’s betterment. Despite the good intentions, this effort failed. Following this, Kishor withdrew, citing that the leaders he had supported had not worked for the public good. Responding to accusations of Kishor being a dealmaker, Bharti attributed these claims to the growing influence and acceptance of Jan Suraaj and Prashant Kishor, which has unsettled other political groups. He suggested that such accusations are diversionary tactics aimed at confusing the public, questioning whether they would resolve the problems facing Bihar. He stated that the individuals making these accusations do not want Bihar to improve.
Discussing whether he felt betrayed by the party, Bharti mentioned that when Jan Suraaj was launched in Bihar, he was selected as the state president following Prashant Kishor’s announcement from the stage, calling for the most capable individual at the grassroots level to be appointed. He was chosen, and subsequently, the core committee decided on Uday Ji for the national president position.
Bharti stressed that current discussions about caste and religion are irrelevant and that his choice to join Jan Suraaj was independent, and he was offered opportunities by other parties before making his decision.
Regarding accusations of not substantiating claims against BJP leaders, Bharti stated that they have never retracted their assertions and are sharing information they believe the public should know, leaving any clarifications to those who need to provide them. He believes that the public is well-informed.
When asked about his expectations for the upcoming elections, Bharti clarified that Jan Suraaj is not participating to gain power. They will not form alliances, differentiating themselves from those who are focused solely on attaining power. Instead, their goal is to reform the system. They will not collaborate with criminals, believing that such associations would hinder their ability to improve the system. Bharti noted that their party is gaining support, with approximately 3 to 5 lakh new members joining daily.