Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor, gearing up for his electoral debut in Bihar’s Bankipur Assembly bypoll, criticized the BJP for its candidate pulling out of the race. Kishor highlighted the BJP’s stronghold in Bankipur and the candidate’s sudden withdrawal, suggesting a lack of confidence within the party.
The BJP named Neeraj Kumar Sinha as its candidate for the by-election, replacing Abhishek Kumar Sinha who cited family reasons for withdrawing. Kishor remarked on the trend of candidates from other parties either withdrawing, being coerced, or bought off in recent years, emphasizing the significance of the BJP candidate’s retreat.
Kishor expressed confidence in the electorate’s desire for change, predicting a setback for the BJP in the upcoming bypoll. He pointed out the symbolic significance of a BJP candidate fleeing from a seat considered a stronghold, indicating a potential shift in voter sentiment towards new options.
BJP leader Jibesh Kumar countered Kishor’s remarks by recalling Jan Suraaj’s defeat in the previous Bihar Assembly polls. He highlighted Kishor’s failure to secure wins in the 243 seats contested, except for two candidates retaining their deposits. Meanwhile, Rashtriya Janata Dal candidate Rekha Gupta downplayed the competition, focusing on connecting with the people and seeking their support.
