Patna, Nov 16, 2025: In the wake of its severe defeat in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, the Prashant Kishor-led Jan Suraaj party has leveled a major allegation against the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state. Spokesperson Pavan Verma claimed that funds originally allocated by the World Bank for development projects were allegedly diverted to influence voters during the elections.

Speaking to ANI, Verma asserted that ₹10,000 was distributed to each of 1.25 crore women voters under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, but the source of these funds, according to him, was the World Bank. “An hour before the model code of conduct for the polls, ₹14,000 crores were withdrawn and transferred to women in the state,” he alleged, while admitting that the claim may or may not be entirely accurate. “As I have said, this is our information. If it is wrong, I seek forgiveness. But if it is true, then the question arises as to how far this is ethical,” Verma added.

The spokesperson also claimed that the total public debt in Bihar currently stands at ₹4,06,000 crores, with daily interest obligations amounting to ₹63 crores. According to him, the treasury is empty, making the timing of the transfers suspicious. He noted that rumors were circulating among beneficiaries that the remaining funds—intended for 2.5 crore women—would not be released if the NDA did not secure power.

Allegations and Political Context

Verma suggested that the central government may have directed the funds strategically, possibly planning to provide post-election explanations. He contextualized the allegations by highlighting that welfare schemes can significantly influence voter behavior. “You make promises, and the other party gives money,” he remarked, referencing both Jan Suraaj’s campaign promises and the ruling party’s welfare transfers.

He also addressed speculation that Jan Suraaj’s poor performance might have been linked to founder Prashant Kishore’s promises to lift Bihar’s liquor ban if voted to power. Verma dismissed this notion, pointing out that liquor was already widely available at higher prices throughout the state, which he argued negatively impacted women managing household finances.

The spokesperson further indicated that the ruling party’s policies towards women, coupled with the last-minute transfer of ₹10,000, may have influenced voter preferences, contributing to Jan Suraaj’s electoral setback.

World Bank Fund Allegation

According to Verma, out of ₹21,000 crore reportedly allocated from World Bank sources for development projects, ₹14,000 crore was allegedly redirected for election-related cash transfers. He emphasised the ethical concerns surrounding such a move, questioning whether using funds intended for development to sway voters aligned with democratic principles.

While Verma admitted that he could not independently verify the information, he said the claim raised significant questions about transparency and accountability. “If true, how far is it ethical? It is possible for the government to direct funds and explain later,” he said.

Election Aftermath

Jan Suraaj’s claims come days after the party failed to secure a single seat in the Bihar Assembly elections. Despite ambitious promises and high-profile campaigning, including welfare proposals and development agendas targeting women voters, the party’s performance was lackluster.

Verma asserted that the electoral defeat was influenced by multiple factors, including last-minute financial transfers by the ruling party and broader policy measures that affected women voters directly. He also highlighted the psychological effect such transfers may have had, as recipients might have feared losing benefits if the NDA was not returned to power.

Reactions and Implications

The allegations have yet to be verified independently and are likely to stir debate on the use of development funds and election ethics. Jan Suraaj’s spokesperson underscored that while they respect the outcome of the elections, they also have a responsibility to raise questions about transparency in governance and voter influence.

The controversy also reflects the growing focus on welfare schemes as electoral tools in Indian politics, particularly when targeted at specific demographic groups like women. Critics argue that such measures, if funded through external or development loans, could undermine public trust and raise questions about the responsible use of borrowed funds.

As Bihar moves forward after the 2025 Assembly elections, the allegations by Jan Suraaj are expected to remain a talking point in political discourse, with opposition parties likely to debate the ethical implications of such financial maneuvers.