At a TV9 Digital Bihar meeting in Patna, Mukesh Sahani, the leader of the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), shared insights. Sahani’s party is part of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) and seeks a significant number of seats in the state elections. Sahani stated that he remains within the Grand Alliance but continues to receive offers from the BJP. He recounted an incident where he was offered to become the Chief Minister in the future by the BJP. Sahani highlighted his achievements, stating he proved that a son of a Mallah (boatman) can be more than just a fisherman, and he has demonstrated this by creating MLAs, Chief Ministers, and ministers. He also mentioned that the BJP had attempted to split his MLAs. Sahani believes that the BJP’s issue is not with him personally but with the possibility of the son of a Nishad community member gaining power and demanding their share.
When asked if he had expressed his desire to become Deputy CM to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, Sahani responded that the alliance consists of six parties, each needing allies. He stated that the election would be led by Tejashwi Yadav under the Mahagathbandhan, who would become the CM. Sahani asserted that the government would be formed by the Grand Alliance, and a role for the son of an extremely backward class with 11% of the vote is assured, thereby a Mallah’s son could become the Deputy CM.
Sahani mentioned that in past by-elections, his party garnered 14-15% of the vote share independently. They are contesting the elections with the Congress as a senior partner, and they want their party to grow to secure a good number of seats. Sahani indicated that Congress would contest on more seats than him. He did not specify the exact number of seats he would contest but stated that they would fight on a good number of seats. He emphasized that his presence guarantees the formation of the government, so they do not need to bargain.
Sahani criticized CM Nitish Kumar, stating that the state is not being run correctly. He highlighted the increase in corruption and the breakdown of law and order. He expressed his belief that the people of Bihar would give them a chance, and they would form a strong government to meet the expectations of the people.