In a TV9 Digital ‘Baithak’ held in Begusarai, as part of a pre-election series across Bihar, Manoj Bharti, the state president of Jan Suraaj, discussed key political issues. Bharti asserted that Jan Suraaj will not enter into any alliances and that the selection of the Chief Minister will be determined by the party’s MLAs.
Bharti drew on his experiences in the foreign service to highlight the backwardness of Bihar, attributing it to its rigid social structures and narrow-mindedness. He contrasted this with other societies where people generally understand their rights, which he views as a fundamental requirement for a functioning society. He argued that the erosion of rights and a lack of effective leadership have contributed to Bihar’s stagnation. Jan Suraaj, he suggested, offers a fresh perspective by uniting people of diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal for the state’s advancement.
Responding to accusations that Prashant Kishor is manipulating the sentiments of the people of Bihar, Bharti challenged the underlying assumptions, asking about Kishor’s aspirations. He suggested that Kishor’s departure from Nitish Kumar must have been triggered by specific reasons. Bharti further explained that Kishor left after observing that the individual he had supported did not act in the interest of the people. Kishor then made the decision to engage directly with the public.
Bharti recalled that in 2015, Kishor recognized that Modi lacked the genuine intention to improve Bihar, which led to an effort to form a coalition excluding the BJP for the state’s development. Despite the good intentions, the endeavor was unsuccessful. Kishor later withdrew, saying that the leaders he helped didn’t serve the public. Addressing criticisms that Kishor is a dealmaker, Bharti attributed these allegations to the rising popularity of Jan Suraaj and Kishor, causing other parties to feel uneasy. He suggested that these attacks are intended to confuse the public, asking whether they will address the problems facing Bihar. Bharti stated that those making the accusations don’t want Bihar to improve.
Asked if he felt betrayed by the party, Bharti clarified that he was chosen as the state president when Jan Suraaj was launched in Bihar. He referenced Kishor’s directive from the stage that the most competent person at the grassroots level should be appointed as the state president, and he was selected. The core committee then decided on Uday Ji for the national president role.
Bharti emphasized that discussions about caste and religion are irrelevant. He chose to join the party and was approached by other parties, but he chose Jan Suraaj.
Regarding the lack of evidence presented to back up claims against BJP leaders, Bharti stated that they have never retracted their statements and are sharing information they believe is crucial for the public. He expects those who need to provide clarifications to do so. He believes the public is informed.
When asked about his predictions for the election, Bharti emphasized that Jan Suraaj is not focused on acquiring power. They will not form any alliances, differing from parties solely driven by the desire for power. Instead, their aim is to reform the system. They will not associate with criminals, as they believe it would undermine their capacity to drive change. Bharti highlighted that approximately 3 to 5 lakh new members are joining their party daily.
