Anand Mohan’s release may blur caste lines in Bihar

The move is also seen signalling the Mahagathbandhan’s desire to increase its political influence beyond the traditional vote-bank of other backward castes (OBCs).

Also, at a time when caste census is being carried out in the state, the Mahagathbandhan’s decision to ensure Anand Mohan’s release is expected to blunt the caste sentiment among the upper castes.
The state government had recently amended the Bihar Prison Rules, 2012, by removing the “murder of public servants on duty” clause from the list of cases for which remission of jail term cannot be considered. The government ordered the release of 27 prisoners, including Mohan, after this amendment.

Although it is doubtful whether Anand Mohan’s release will affect the BJP’s support-base among the Rajput voters, it also shows the concern of the ruling Grand Alliance, which accommodates seven parties in Bihar, including RJD, JDU and Congress, to woo the Rajput voters who matter in around 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state. These seats include Ara, Barh, Munger, Motihari, Vaishali, Sheohar, Banka, Purnia and Karakat. As per one estimate, Rajput account for about 4% of the state’s population.

After the 2014 Lok Sabha election, the BJP successfully expanded its strong support base among the Rajput voters across the state, and they (Rajputs) are now considered among the core supporters of the BJP. Perhaps this is one reason the BJP is finding it difficult to criticize the move on Anand Mohan.

JDU spokesperson and former minister Neeraj Kumar said chief minister Nitish Kumar is known for establishing the rule of law in the state. “During his tenure, there was no social tension. Anand Mohan was released as per law. The government’s decision to release him has nothing to do with politics,” he told ET.BJP’s spokesperson Nikhil Anand claimed that Nitish Kumar has lost his support base at the ground level. “BJP is prepared enough for the 2024 LS polls, as well as 2025 Bihar assembly polls. It would prove that CM Nitish was like a political parasite,” he said.