Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 5: Former election strategist Prashant Kishor-led Jan Suraaj Party has approached the Supreme Court challenging the recently concluded Bihar Assembly Elections, 2025, seeking directions for fresh polls in the state.
The matter is likely to be listed for hearing on Friday before a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi.
In the elections, the BJP-led NDA retained power in Bihar by securing 202 of the 243 Assembly seats. The opposition INDIA bloc managed to win only 35 seats, including six won by the Congress. The Jan Suraaj Party failed to win any seat, with most of its candidates forfeiting their deposits.
In its petition, the party has alleged large-scale violations of the Model Code of Conduct by the Bihar government. It has specifically objected to the transfer of Rs 10,000 each to women beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana after the election schedule was announced.
The plea has sought directions to the Election Commission of India to initiate action under Article 324 of the Constitution, which deals with the superintendence, direction and control of elections, and Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, pertaining to corrupt electoral practices.
According to the petition, the direct transfer of funds amounted to inducement of voters and influenced the electoral process.
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana provides an initial financial assistance of Rs 10,000 to women to help them start small businesses, aimed at promoting self-employment and women’s empowerment in the state.
Further developments are awaited as the apex court takes up the matter for consideration.