Heartland’s Troubled Terrain – Lifestyle News

The state of Bihar has long been synonymous with the intertwining of crime and politics, creating a toxic environment of corruption and caste wars. The term ‘Jungle Raj’ has been used to describe the dark era between 1990 and 2005, marked by a nexus of crime and political power that led to under-governance and chaos in the state.

In his book “Broken Promises: Caste, Crime and Politics in Bihar,” Mrityunjay Sharma delves into this tumultuous period, highlighting the rise and fall of leaders like Lalu Prasad and the subsequent emergence of figures like Nitish Kumar. The book chronicles the decimation of the Congress party, the rise of socialist politics, and the violent clashes between different caste groups that plagued the state for years.

Bihar’s society has long been deeply feudal, with a few privileged castes holding disproportionate power and influence over the masses. Land reforms movements fizzled out, leaving many farmers and workers in a state of informal bondage, devoid of personal freedom and dignity. The urban areas were no better, with power corridors dominated by those on the right side of the caste divide.

Lalu Prasad emerged as a messiah for the marginalized, using his rustic political persona to rally support and denigrate the upper castes. However, his rule was marked by a ‘conflict approach’ that relied on crime, caste-based governance, and rampant corruption. Development took a back seat, and the masses remained disempowered, leading to Lalu’s eventual downfall with the revelation of the fodder scam.

In contrast, Nitish Kumar, a protege of Jayprakash Narayan, took over the reins of Bihar in 2005, inheriting a state in dire straits. Through careful prioritization and strategic decision-making, Nitish managed to steer the state away from the brink of collapse, earning praise for his governance despite facing criticism for his shifting political allegiances.

Sharma’s book offers a comprehensive account of Bihar’s political landscape, shedding light on the state’s historical and cultural legacy. While the book may have some minor flaws in language and factual accuracy, it provides a compelling narrative of Bihar’s tumultuous journey through the years.

As Bihar stands at a crossroads with upcoming elections, Sharma’s insights into the state’s politics and challenges are more relevant than ever. The decisions made in Bihar will have national repercussions, making it crucial for readers to engage with Sharma’s account and gain a deeper understanding of the state’s complex political dynamics.