Bihar elections heat up as Jan Suraj faces rebellion after first candidate list release

Bihar elections 2025: The political temperature in Bihar has risen sharply after Jan Suraj, led by strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor, announced its first list of 51 candidates. This made Jan Suraj only the second party after AAP to declare names. But instead of celebration, the move sparked chaos. In Patna, disappointed workers stormed the party office, shouting slogans and expressing anger. They alleged unfairness in the ticket distribution process, accusing leadership of ignoring loyal ground workers.

Kishor opts out of contest

Just before releasing the list, Prashant Kishor shocked many by announcing he would not contest the assembly polls himself. He explained that managing the party’s strategy across all 243 constituencies required his full focus. Kishor said his role was to strengthen the organization rather than seek power. While some praised the decision as selfless, others saw it as a way to avoid electoral risk in a highly competitive political battle.

#WATCH पटना, बिहार: जन सुराज पार्टी की उम्मीदवार सूची के विरोध जन सुराज नेता पुष्पा सिंह ने कहा, "सभी पार्टी को छोड़ कर हमने जन सुराज के प्रशांत किशोर पर भरोसा किया। जब से उनकी पैदल यात्रा चली है उनके साथ हम चले हैं... मुझे टिकट नहीं मिला। पहले कहा जाता था कि जिसने सबसे ज्यादा… pic.twitter.com/A2k7aCnZao

— ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) October 9, 2025

Workers cry foul in Patna

Several leaders expressed dissatisfaction, saying promises of rewarding hard work were broken. Pushpa Singh, a local leader, complained she was denied a ticket despite walking with Kishor since his padyatra began. She claimed candidates unfamiliar with local issues were chosen instead. This sense of betrayal sparked loud protests in Patna, with party workers demanding justice and transparency in the selection process, questioning the very ideals Jan Suraj had promised.

Kishor explains selection criteria

Responding to the uproar, Kishor defended the process. He said tickets were given to individuals who worked hardest to build Jan Suraj over the past two years. The aim, he stressed, was to select candidates capable of improving Bihar, not simply rewarding popularity. According to him, the list reflects inclusivity, with representation from various communities. He admitted that some names might surprise workers but said merit was judged on different levels of contribution.

Balancing merit and anger

Kishor acknowledged that discontent was natural in such a vast organization. Thousands of workers are associated with Jan Suraj, yet only 243 could eventually receive tickets. He reminded members that not everyone’s efforts could be recognized equally. While some might feel sidelined, he insisted that decisions were made fairly and without favoritism. Kishor urged supporters to look at the bigger picture of reforming Bihar rather than personal ambitions.

Political stakes rising fast

With the official election schedule out, rival alliances NDA and Mahagathbandhan are still negotiating seat-sharing deals. Jan Suraj, by moving ahead with its candidate list, positioned itself as an aggressive player. Analysts say the internal turmoil shows the challenges of a young party entering a high-stakes contest. While Kishor’s reformist message appeals to some, managing internal unity will be critical for his party’s performance in the upcoming assembly elections.

Future of Jan Suraj uncertain

The protests highlight the hurdles Kishor faces in translating his vision into electoral success. Building a credible alternative in Bihar requires both organizational strength and loyalty from grassroots workers. If discontent spreads, Jan Suraj may struggle to maintain momentum. Still, Kishor remains confident that his model of clean politics and people’s participation will prevail. Whether that confidence withstands the heat of Bihar’s elections remains the big question.