During a digital meeting, Dr. Sanjeev, a rebel MLA from the Janata Dal United (JDU) in Bihar, voiced his skepticism about the ongoing caste census. He questioned its purpose and potential benefits, suggesting that an economic census would be more beneficial. Dr. Sanjeev, who has often taken stances against the party line, clarified that he has no personal issues with Nitish Kumar. He further stated that he does not favor anyone else in the JDU after Nitish Kumar.
Dr. Sanjeev emphasized the importance of a strong character to make one’s voice heard. He said he speaks firmly because he believes in what is right. He is accustomed to calling a spade a spade, which often leads to problems for him.
He mentioned that some individuals within his party are trying to create controversies. He stated that he has no problem with Nitish Kumar, who was close to his father and had always supported his entry into politics. However, he feels that some people in the party are unhappy with his work in his constituency. He frequently raises issues in his constituency, which is not well-received by certain individuals.
Addressing the issue of farmers, Dr. Sanjeev highlighted that it is a significant concern in Bihar, affecting people of all castes. He noted that in many places, receipts have not been issued for nine years, causing distress to farmers. They are not receiving compensation for crop damage or benefits from the PM Awas Yojana. Without up-to-date receipts, farmers are unable to access any facilities. Dr. Sanjeev has been raising these issues since 2021 and has sought solutions with the Governor.
Commenting on the government’s actions, Dr. Sanjeev pointed out the recent distribution of funds to laborers for Durga Puja, questioning why such measures were not taken earlier. He also criticized the handling of floods in the state, stating that no audits are conducted despite significant expenditures. He believes that connecting rivers could solve the problem, and the failure to remove silt is intentional because it wastes public funds.
Criticizing the caste census, Dr. Sanjeev questioned its purpose, arguing that knowing the caste provides no real benefit. He opposes it and does not intend to retire from politics. He believes in a different approach and questioned the outcomes of the census. He pointed out that the promise of providing ₹2 lakh to every poor person has not been fulfilled, asking what was achieved by the census. He suggests conducting an economic census instead.
He concluded that the census has been completed, and now everyone is silent. He believes that the results should be displayed. He also mentioned that people in villages are struggling to find jobs, and there has been no improvement in their standard of living. He stated that Bihar has become a state that supplies laborers.