Protesters Demand Resignation of Bihar Health Minister Amid Corruption Allegations

In a dramatic demonstration outside the residence of Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey in Patna on Monday, Jan Suraaj Party workers voiced accusations of corruption and negligence, rallying for the minister's resignation. The protest, led by Jan Suraaj state president Manoj Bharti, saw attendees attempting to gherao the minister's home, demanding accountability and immediate action.

Speaking to ANI, Bharti alleged, "Mangal Pandey is culpable in the death of a Dalit girl and is undeniably the most corrupt minister in Bihar. His continuance in office is untenable; thus, we are protesting." He further accused the police of suppressing democratic rights, stating, "Every Minister in Nitish Kumar's cabinet is deceitful." Another protestor highlighted the ineffectiveness of the Health Ministry, urging for Pandey's resignation due to his inaction.

On May 23, Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor lambasted the political leadership of Bihar, targeting Health Minister Mangal Pandey and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over governance failures and farmer grievances. Addressing media after a public meeting, Kishor questioned Pandey's efficacy during the COVID-19 crisis, reminding the public of the hardships endured during the 2020 migrant crisis.

Reflecting on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's extensive tenure, Kishor accused his government of failing to secure fair prices for farmers. "Despite two decades of governance, fair pricing for crops remains elusive," he remarked, criticizing the disparity in paddy prices and the impending seasonal policies as mere electoral strategies.

(With inputs from agencies.)