Introduction: Bihar’s Shifting Political Landscape

Bihar’s political environment has always been layered, complex and deeply influenced by caste structures, welfare schemes, leadership credibility, and grassroots mobilisation. In this politically sensitive atmosphere, even a small shift in voter sentiment can create massive electoral consequences. The recent statement made by Prashant Kishor, political strategist-turned-activist and founder of the Jan Suraaj Party, has once again brought Bihar’s electoral behaviour into the spotlight.

Kishor’s assertion that the Janata Dal (United) or JD(U)—the party led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar—would have been “bundled up with just 25 seats” if not for the ₹10,000 financial assistance provided to women, has stirred significant debate. His claim is significant not only for its political implications but also because it underscores the rising influence of direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes in elections.

In his reflective commentary, Kishor also accepted complete responsibility for his party’s disappointing performance, asserting that the Jan Suraaj Party attempted an honest effort to make an electoral debut but failed to resonate with voters at a meaningful scale.

This article takes a deep and detailed look into Kishor’s statement, the political impact of welfare schemes in Bihar, JD(U)’s electoral strategies, voter behaviour, and the challenges faced by new political entrants in a state dominated by older, deeply entrenched parties.

Prashant Kishor’s Statement: A Closer Perspective

Prashant Kishor, who has been both a political strategist for national leaders and now a political activist, issued a straightforward remark: JD(U) would not have performed as well without the ₹10,000 assistance provided to women. His comment suggests two important underlying messages:

1. Welfare schemes have become a major determinant in Bihar politics, especially those targeting women.

2. JD(U)’s core vote base may be weakening, and the financial assistance served as a temporary stabiliser.

Kishor’s observation is not random. Over the years, Nitish Kumar has carefully crafted an image of being a pro-women leader. Schemes like:

• Cycle Yojana for schoolgirls

• Uniform scheme

• Reservation for women in panchayats

• Mukhya Mantri Kanya Utthan Yojana

have consistently improved female participation in elections. His latest move of providing ₹10,000 assistance to women, particularly after the economic strain caused by inflation and unemployment, seems to have reinforced loyalty in a strategically important voter segment.

Kishor’s claim directly implies that without women voters, JD(U)'s electoral position would have been drastically weak.

Women as a Political Force in Bihar Elections

Over the last 15 years, Bihar has witnessed a silent revolution in the political strength of women voters. The reasons are multifold:

• High migration rates among men have shifted household decision-making responsibility to women.

• Welfare schemes introduced by Nitish Kumar have directly benefited women, leading to emotional and economic support for JD(U).

• Improved literacy rates among women have increased political awareness.

• Safety and mobility initiatives have created a sense of empowerment.

Women have voted in large numbers in recent elections—sometimes exceeding the male turnout. Their collective voice has influenced electoral outcomes, particularly in rural constituencies.

The ₹10,000 assistance was structured in a way that directly assured immediate financial relief, which tends to create stronger electoral bonds than long-term policy promises. Kishor’s statement is a reflection of this electoral reality.

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