Upendra Kushwaha Controversy: Will Son Deepak Prakash Have to Resign Like BP Mandal?

Patna, Bihar: Bihar’s political spotlight is once again on Upendra Kushwaha and his son, Deepak Prakash, as questions arise over the latter’s status as a temporary minister. Deepak, currently serving as a minister, has not yet become a member of any legislative house—a situation reminiscent of BP Mandal’s ministerial stint decades ago.

If Kushwaha’s party, the Rashtriya Lok Morcha, faces internal splits, questions emerge about his influence in the NDA and whether he might blame the BJP for any fallout. Following a recent reconciliation with the BJP, any renewed tension could put much at stake. Deepak Prakash is expected to be sent to the Bihar Legislative Council under the BJP quota; failure to do so could force him to step down, just as BP Mandal had to in the past.

When the Cure Becomes the Cause
Upendra Kushwaha had made his son a minister to strengthen his party and maintain cohesion. However, the move backfired. Despite initially being praised as a masterstroke, appointing Deepak Prakash has now become a potential liability, as internal rebellion brews within the party. Though the party has not yet split, signs of unrest are evident.

The Risk of Being a Non-Member Minister
Deepak Prakash, like BP Mandal before him, must become a Legislative Council member within six months to retain his ministerial post. If the BJP does not act promptly to secure his position in the council, he could face a situation similar to Mandal, who resigned in 1967 when he was not appointed to the Bihar Legislative Council after serving as a minister while being a Member of Parliament.

Historical Precedent
BP Mandal, a Lok Sabha MP in 1967, was appointed Bihar’s Health Minister despite not being a legislative member. Due to delays and political pressure from coalition partners, Mandal eventually resigned when he was not sent to the Bihar Legislative Council within six months, highlighting the risks of ministers holding office without legislative membership.

On the other hand, ministers like PK Shahi were appointed in 2010 under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for their expertise despite not being members of any house. Shahi later became a Legislative Council member within the constitutional timeline, demonstrating the correct procedure for such appointments.

As the political drama unfolds in Bihar, all eyes are on whether Deepak Prakash will secure his council seat in time—or face a fate similar to BP Mandal’s historic resignation.