10-JULY-2025, 12:00PM
In a politically charged statement that has stirred Bihar’s political circles, election strategist and political commentator Prashant Kishor lashed out at the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), claiming the party is “intimidated” by Kanhaiya Kumar, the Congress leader and former student activist. This came in response to an incident where Kanhaiya Kumar was allegedly denied space on a campaign van during a joint rally.
Kishor said the snub was not accidental but rather a calculated political move by the RJD, driven by insecurity over Kumar’s growing appeal among the youth and the educated voter base in Bihar. His remarks have reignited the conversation about the changing dynamics within the state’s Opposition alliance, particularly between the Congress and the RJD.
Kanhaiya Kumar : The Campaign Van Snub: What Happened?
Kanhaiya Kumar Excluded from Shared Platform
During a recent joint rally organized under the INDIA alliance banner in Bihar, Kanhaiya Kumar was seen walking alongside the campaign van instead of sharing the stage or vehicle with other senior leaders. This visual quickly made rounds on social media, sparking public outrage and speculation.
Several Congress workers and supporters questioned why a prominent leader like Kumar—who has nationwide recognition—was made to walk while others were given the spotlight. The optics, many said, reflected a deeper rift between alliance partners.
Kanhaiya Kumar : RJD Denies Intentional Exclusion
RJD leaders were quick to dismiss the allegations, stating it was a “logistical issue” and not a deliberate slight. They claimed the van was at capacity and that Kumar had chosen to walk to better engage with the public. However, the explanation did little to quell the backlash, especially after Prashant Kishor stepped in with a scathing critique of the RJD’s insecurities.
Prashant Kishor’s Sharp Remarks on RJD and Kanhaiya Kumar
Kanhaiya Kumar Threatens RJD’s Legacy Politics”
In an exclusive media interaction, Prashant Kishor accused the RJD leadership of being uncomfortable with Kanhaiya Kumar’s rising prominence. “The RJD sees Kumar as someone who appeals to a newer, more conscious generation of voters. He doesn’t belong to the old caste-based mould, and that’s what threatens them,” said Kishor.
Kishor went on to state that the RJD fears Kumar might one day lead a political movement that could disrupt the party’s traditional voter base and challenge its dynastic leadership.
Kanhaiya Kumar : Congress Reacts Cautiously to the Controversy
While Congress has yet to officially comment on Kishor’s remarks, several party leaders have echoed concerns about unequal treatment of its leaders by alliance partners. One senior Congress leader, on condition of anonymity, said, “We have worked hard to build unity within the alliance, but respect for each other’s leaders is fundamental.”
Kanhaiya Kumar, known for his vocal stances, has remained silent on the incident, choosing not to escalate tensions within the INDIA alliance at this delicate juncture.
Kanhaiya Kumar’s Political Journey So Far
From JNU Firebrand to Congress Leader
Kanhaiya Kumar, once the fiery student leader and president of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union, made national headlines during the controversial sedition case of 2016. His powerful speeches and oratory skills made him a youth icon and a prominent face of resistance politics.
After an unsuccessful attempt with the CPI in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Kumar joined the Congress party in 2021, bringing with him a wave of energy and fresh ideological clarity. Since then, he has worked to revive the party’s youth connect, especially in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Focused on Social Justice and Constitutional Values
Kumar’s politics are deeply rooted in Ambedkarite philosophy, social justice, and secularism. Unlike many traditional leaders who rely on caste arithmetic, Kumar speaks the language of rights, constitutional morality, and progressive change—appealing to young, urban voters.
This ideological shift is seen as both an asset and a challenge for the Congress, which is trying to balance its traditional support base with newer aspirations.
What the Van Incident Reveals About Bihar Politics
Cracks in INDIA Alliance?
The van incident involving Kanhaiya Kumar is the latest episode exposing the fragile trust within the INDIA alliance, especially in states like Bihar where Congress and RJD have historically had a turbulent partnership. The issue is not just about campaign logistics but also about recognition, leadership dynamics, and mutual respect.
If not addressed properly, such events could weaken the alliance’s appeal ahead of upcoming state and national elections.
Role of Political Image in Modern Campaigning
In the age of social media and 24/7 news cycles, political symbolism matters. The image of a young leader like Kanhaiya Kumar walking while others campaign from elevated platforms sends a message—intended or not. Political observers believe this moment may become a reference point for larger discussions about generational change in Indian politics.
Public Reaction and Social Media Uproar
Hashtags and Public Sentiment
Twitter (X) saw a surge of hashtags such as #JusticeForKanhaiya, #RJDExposed, and #KanhaiyaMatters. Netizens criticized RJD’s actions and lauded Kanhaiya Kumar for his dignified silence. Many youth leaders and influencers highlighted this incident as proof of why Indian politics needs new blood.
The incident also caught the attention of student organizations and political commentators who see Kumar as a symbol of hope for progressive politics.
A Missed Opportunity for Opposition Unity?
Analysts say the RJD’s perceived snub may alienate younger and urban voters, especially those who relate to Kumar’s clean image and intellectual activism. This could impact vote share in key constituencies if Congress supporters feel their leaders are not respected within alliances.
Conclusion: Kanhaiya Kumar—Rising Voice in an Old Order?
The campaign van snub incident and Prashant Kishor’s explosive remarks have put the spotlight on Kanhaiya Kumar and the shifting sands of Bihar’s political landscape. As the Opposition attempts to build a united front against the ruling party, it must first resolve internal contradictions and egos.
Whether this controversy fades or becomes a turning point will depend on how leaders from RJD and Congress handle it moving forward. But one thing is certain—Kanhaiya Kumar is no longer just a symbolic youth leader. He’s now seen as a genuine political force, one that even seasoned parties feel the need to contain.
Source : ANI
