Prashant Kishor Launches Jan Suraaj Party, Will Contest Bihar Assembly Elections 2024, Vows To End Liquor Ban

Prashant Kishor, the founder of Jan Suraaj, has officially launched his political party, Jan Suraaj Party. During the launch, he expressed gratitude for the Election Commission of India's approval. "Jan Suraaj campaign is going on for 2-3 years. People are asking when we will be forming the party. We all must thank God, today the Election Commission has officially accepted Jan Suraaj as Jan Suraaj Party," he stated.

On September 29, Kishor announced that an important milestone in the Jan Suraaj journey would be reached on October 2, 2024. He had previously outlined three aims for this journey when it began on May 5, 2022. After two and a half years of efforts, the establishment of Jan Suraaj as a new political entity is set for October 2024.

Focus on Bihar's Development

Kishor has pledged to lift Bihar's liquor ban if elected. He believes this move could redirect funds towards education. "When the liquor ban will be removed, that money won't go into the budget and will not be used for the security of leaders, nor it will be used for roads, water and electricity. That will be used only for building a new education system in Bihar," he explained.

He further highlighted that Bihar loses Rs 20,000 crore annually due to this ban. To achieve a world-class education system in Bihar, Kishor estimates an investment of Rs 5 lakh crore over ten years is necessary.

Political Landscape Insights

On the eve of his party's launch, Kishor commented on recent Lok Sabha election results. He noted that voters have shown they won't tolerate arrogance from leaders. "The results tell us that no leader in this country can take people for granted," he said.

Kishor also remarked on Rahul Gandhi's leadership potential within Congress. While Gandhi's supporters see hope for revival under him, Kishor believes Gandhi still needs to gain broader acceptance as a national leader.

Commitment to Bihar

Kishor has decided not to return to political consultancy and remains focused on improving socio-economic conditions in Bihar. "I used to work for other political parties and leaders by helping them in their campaigns... I will be doing the same for the people of Bihar now," he affirmed.

Several notable figures have joined Jan Suraaj: Devendra Prasad Yadav (Ex-Union Minister), Lalan Yadav (Retired IAS), Mahendra Mehta (Retired IRTS Officer), and Afaque Ahmad (MLC Saran District). Malvika Raj was selected for Pathfinder's Clean Himalaya Mission in Ladakh back in September 2015.

Kishor emphasised that no party or leader can dominate India unchallenged. His past experience includes working with major parties like BJP and Congress before dedicating himself entirely to Jan Suraaj in Bihar.