RJD and Congress Split Over Support for Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Chief in Bankipur Byelection
The decision by the chief of Jan Suraaj, a political outfit floated by election strategist Prashant Kishor, to contest the upcoming Bankipur Assembly byelection in Bihar has created a rift within the opposition Mahagathbandhan, particularly between the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress. The move has sparked a debate over whether to extend support to the candidate or maintain distance, exposing internal divisions in the alliance.
Background of the Bankipur Byelection
The Bankipur constituency in Patna district fell vacant after the death of sitting RJD MLA and former minister Renu Devi in April 2026. The byelection is scheduled for July 2026, and the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has already announced its candidate. The opposition Mahagathbandhan, comprising RJD, Congress, and other allies, is yet to finalize its strategy. However, the entry of Jan Suraaj chief, who has been critical of both the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, has complicated the political landscape.
Divided Opinions Within RJD and Congress
According to sources, a section of RJD leaders, including some close to party president Lalu Prasad Yadav, believes that supporting Jan Suraaj chief could help in weakening the NDA's hold in the constituency. They argue that Jan Suraaj's anti-establishment stance could attract voters disillusioned with both major alliances. On the other hand, several RJD leaders are opposed to the idea, fearing that it would legitimize a rival political force that has been openly criticizing the RJD's governance record.
Similarly, the Congress party is divided. Some Congress leaders, including Bihar Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh, have expressed reservations about backing Jan Suraaj chief, citing ideological differences. Others, however, see an opportunity to forge a broader opposition unity against the BJP-led NDA. “The Congress must decide whether to align with forces that challenge the NDA or stick to its traditional allies,” said a senior Congress leader on condition of anonymity.
Jan Suraaj's Stand and Prashant Kishor's Role
Jan Suraaj, launched by Prashant Kishor in October 2025, aims to provide an alternative to the existing political parties in Bihar. The party has been critical of both the RJD and the BJP, accusing them of perpetuating caste-based politics and corruption. Kishor, who previously worked as an election strategist for various parties including the BJP and the Congress, has maintained that Jan Suraaj will contest elections independently and not form alliances with any major party.
However, the decision by Jan Suraaj chief to contest the Bankipur byelection has raised questions about the party's strategy. Some political analysts believe that this move is aimed at testing the waters ahead of the 2027 Bihar Assembly elections. “Bankipur is a traditional RJD stronghold. If Jan Suraaj can make a dent in the RJD's vote bank, it could signal a shift in Bihar's political dynamics,” said political commentator Dr. N. K. Singh.
Impact on Mahagathbandhan's Unity
The internal discord over supporting Jan Suraaj chief has exposed the fragility of the Mahagathbandhan, which has been struggling to maintain cohesion since its formation in 2020. The alliance, which also includes the Left parties, has faced several challenges, including seat-sharing disputes and ideological clashes. The Bankipur byelection has now become a test of the alliance's ability to present a united front against the NDA.
RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari said, “Our party will take a decision in the interest of the alliance and the people of Bihar. We are in talks with our partners.” Congress spokesperson Rajesh Rathore added, “We are committed to defeating the NDA. Any decision will be taken collectively.”
NDA's Strategy and the Road Ahead
The NDA, led by the BJP, has already fielded its candidate, former minister and BJP leader Nitin Nabin, for the Bankipur seat. The party is confident of retaining the constituency, citing its development agenda and the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “The opposition is in disarray. The people of Bankipur will vote for development and good governance,” said Bihar BJP spokesperson Prem Ranjan Patel.
As the July 2026 byelection approaches, all eyes are on the Mahagathbandhan's final decision. Whether the RJD and Congress can bridge their differences and present a unified strategy remains to be seen. The outcome of this byelection could have significant implications for the political landscape in Bihar ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
