Sep 20, 2025BusinessAsiaThe Hindu

Bihar BJP Accuses Prashant Kishor of Raising Crores Through Shell Companies in Poll Fraud Allegations

Indian political rally with crowd and banners, symbolizing election fervor in Bihar

In the heated buildup to Bihar's assembly elections, the BJP's state unit didn't hold back on Saturday, September 21, 2025, branding political newcomer Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj party as nothing more than "a political startup based on fraud." The sharp-tongued accusation came as BJP leaders claimed that the former election strategist-turned-politician has funneled hundreds of crores of rupees into his venture through shadowy shell companies. It's a bold move that's stirring up the political pot in one of India's most volatile states.

Prashant Kishor, once a mastermind behind campaigns for major parties like the BJP itself, has been under fire for his opaque funding sources and even his academic background. BJP spokespeople questioned the legitimacy of Jan Suraaj's financial backbone, suggesting it's propped up by dubious entities rather than genuine grassroots support. "This isn't politics; it's a scam dressed up as a party," one BJP leader quipped, pointing to what they see as irregularities in donations and expenditures. As Bihar gears up for polls, these claims add fuel to the rivalry, with the BJP confidently forecasting a humiliating loss for Kishor's outfit.

The allegations highlight the cutthroat nature of Indian regional politics, where funding transparency is often a flashpoint. While Kishor and Jan Suraaj have yet to respond in detail, the controversy could sway voter perceptions in a state known for its dramatic electoral twists. For now, it's a reminder that in Bihar's arena, every rupee and rumor counts toward the final showdown.