Renowned political strategist Prashant Kishor has embarked on a three-day silent protest at the historic Bhitiharwa Ashram in West Champaran district of Bihar. This significant move comes as part of his ongoing Jan Suraaj campaign across the state.
The Silent Protest Begins
Kishor commenced his maun vrat (silent observance) on Tuesday at the ashram established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917. The political strategist turned activist plans to maintain complete silence for 72 hours while staying at the historic site. During this period, he will engage in deep contemplation about his future political strategy and the direction of his Jan Suraaj movement.
The timing of this silent protest is particularly significant as it coincides with the ongoing political realignments in Bihar. Kishor's decision to observe silence at one of Gandhi's earliest ashrams in India sends a powerful symbolic message about his commitment to grassroots politics.
Historical Significance of Bhitiharwa Ashram
The Bhitiharwa Ashram holds special importance in India's freedom struggle history. Mahatma Gandhi established this ashram in 1917 during the Champaran Satyagraha, which marked his first major political intervention in India. The location chosen by Kishor for his silent protest thus carries deep historical resonance.
Local sources indicate that Kishor will spend his time at the ashram reading, writing, and reflecting on his political journey. He has been touring Bihar extensively as part of his Jan Suraaj padyatra, which has already covered substantial ground across the state.
Political Implications and Future Plans
This silent retreat comes amid growing speculation about Kishor's potential entry into active politics in Bihar. His Jan Suraaj campaign has been gaining traction across various districts, with the strategist consistently emphasizing the need for clean governance and people-centric politics.
While Kishor maintains that his current focus remains on the padyatra and connecting with common people, political observers are watching his movements closely. The decision to undertake a silent protest at a Gandhi ashram aligns with his recent emphasis on following the Mahatma's principles in political work.
The three-day maun vrat is expected to conclude on Thursday, after which Kishor is likely to resume his public engagements and continue with the next phase of his Jan Suraaj campaign. His team has confirmed that the padyatra will proceed as planned following this brief period of reflection.
This development marks another interesting chapter in Kishor's political journey, which began as a behind-the-scenes strategist for major political parties and has now evolved into a more public-facing role focused on grassroots mobilization in Bihar.
