Nitish Kumar’s ‘Psychological Offensive’ in Lalu’s Stronghold: Sending a Message from Saran During ‘Samriddhi Yatra’

Saran, Bihar: For Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Saran is more than just a district—it is a key battlefield in the psychological war against RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav. Nitish believes that defeating Lalu in his home turf would send a powerful message across Bihar, challenging the RJD’s long-standing perception of invincibility.

During his 16th leg of the ongoing ‘Samriddhi Yatra,’ Nitish Kumar has prioritized Saran, signaling a strategic focus on the district to demonstrate political dominance and influence the wider electorate.

Special Support from the People of Saran

In recent elections, the electorate in Saran has actively moved against Lalu Prasad Yadav’s political and social influence. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, NDA candidate Rajiv Pratap Rudy defeated Rohini Acharya, Lalu’s popular daughter. In the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, the NDA secured a sweeping victory in the district.

NDA Wins 7 of 10 Seats in 2025

In the 2025 Assembly elections, NDA won seven out of ten seats in Saran: BJP secured five, and JD(U) won two. The victories came from Chhapra, Amanur, Taraiya, Baniyapur, and Sonpur for BJP, and Ekma and Manjhi for JD(U). RJD managed to win only three seats—Madhora, Parsa, and Garkha.

RJD’s Performance in 2020

In contrast, the 2020 Assembly elections saw RJD winning six seats in Saran: Madhora, Garkha, Parsa, Sonpur, Baniyapur, and Ekma, while CPI(M) won Manjhi. BJP captured Chhapra, Taraiya, and Amanur, and JD(U) failed to win any seat. In 2015, when JD(U) and RJD were in alliance, the Mahagathbandhan won eight out of ten seats in the district.

Nitish Kumar’s Strategic Focus on Development

Nitish Kumar’s attention to Saran is also driven by a development-focused narrative. While Lalu had inaugurated the Engine Factory in Madhora, Nitish has highlighted local initiatives such as the Bhela Rail Wheel Factory. During the ‘Samriddhi Yatra,’ he is scheduled to inaugurate the JEEVIKA Didi’s hospital, a sewing center, and an ITI training facility, among other projects, signaling both development and political consolidation in the district.

By combining visible development works with a political strategy, Nitish Kumar aims to consolidate his party’s influence in Saran while delivering a clear message to the RJD ahead of upcoming elections.