Jan Suraaj candidate Sanjay Singh from Munger constituency cut ties with the party on Wednesday and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), just one day before the first phase of assembly elections. The sudden move, executed in the final hours before polling, has stunned supporters and altered the electoral equation in a seat that was expected to witness a fierce three-way battle. Political circles are abuzz with speculation over the timing and motives behind this high-profile defection.

Sanjay Singh officially took BJP membership in the presence of the party’s Munger nominee, Kumar Pranay, and pledged full support to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). By withdrawing his candidature and aligning with the ruling coalition, Singh has effectively merged his campaign efforts and voter base with the BJP, transforming what locals described as a fragmented contest into a direct NDA versus Mahagathbandhan clash. BJP workers celebrated the development as a major boost, while Jan Suraaj cadres expressed outrage and disbelief.

Speaking to reporters after the switch, Singh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, stating that only their leadership could deliver substantial progress in Bihar. He admitted that Jan Suraaj’s vision of clean, people-centric politics had gained traction but argued that the party lacked the strength and structure to implement real change. “Good intentions need strong execution,” he said, justifying his decision to back the NDA for a decisive victory in Munger.

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This defection marks the fourth candidate exit from Jan Suraaj in recent weeks, following withdrawals from Danapur, Brahmapur, and Gopalganj. The timing—on the eve of voting—intensifies pressure on Prashant Kishor’s outfit, which is fighting to establish credibility in its debut election. Analysts say the consolidation in Munger favors the NDA, as Singh’s supporters are likely to shift allegiance en masse.

With campaigning ended and voting set for Thursday across 121 seats, the incident is expected to spark sharp exchanges between Jan Suraaj and the BJP. The former is likely to allege coercion and undue influence, claims the BJP will dismiss. As Bihar heads to the polls, this last-minute switch highlights the volatile and unpredictable nature of its electoral politics.

Also Read: Prashant Kishor Alleges BJP Coercing Jan Suraaj Candidates to Withdraw in Bihar Polls