Prashant Kishor, founder of the Jan Suraaj Party, on Tuesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of exerting pressure on three of his party’s candidates to withdraw their nominations from the Bihar Assembly elections, describing the development as a direct assault on democratic processes. Speaking at a press conference in Patna, Kishor stated that candidates from the Danapur, Brahampur, and Gopalganj constituencies were compelled to pull out under duress from the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He alleged that the NDA, fearing electoral losses, was systematically intimidating opposition candidates to secure unopposed victories—a tactic he likened to the controversial Surat model during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

“The NDA is replicating the Surat strategy, where all rival candidates were coerced into withdrawing, leading to an unopposed election. Such actions undermine the very foundation of democracy,” Kishor said. He pointed out that the BJP had faced national backlash for similar tactics, resulting in a reduced tally of 240 Lok Sabha seats despite projections of over 400.

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With the withdrawal deadline passed, Jan Suraaj—originally fielding candidates in all 243 constituencies—will now contest 240 seats. Kishor urged the Election Commission of India to provide immediate security to remaining candidates and investigate the alleged intimidation. Sources close to the affected candidates reported receiving anonymous threats, including warnings of legal action against family members and disruption of local businesses. In Brahampur, a candidate reportedly faced persistent calls from unidentified numbers pressuring him to step down in exchange for official favors.

The Election Commission has acknowledged receipt of complaints but has not issued a detailed response. Political observers note that Jan Suraaj’s entry had introduced a new variable in Bihar’s tightly contested electoral landscape, particularly among urban and youth voters disillusioned with traditional alliances.

As the state prepares for phased polling, the incident has intensified calls for stricter oversight of nomination processes and candidate protection. The outcome of Kishor’s allegations could influence public perception of electoral fairness in one of India’s most politically significant states.

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