Bihar politics has once again witnessed an unexpected move by Tej Pratap Yadav, a leader known for his unconventional style and strong religious identity. The senior leader of the Jan Shakti Janata Dal has announced the formation of a new organisational wing called ‘Sant Prakoshth’ (Saints’ Cell) within his party.
The decision has sparked political debate, as it marks a visible entry of spiritual and religious engagement into the party’s formal structure.
What Is the Sant Prakoshth and Why Was It Created?
The Sant Prakoshth has been formed to establish a structured connection between the party and saints, seers, mahants, and spiritual leaders. According to party leaders, the cell aims to:
- Strengthen social harmony
- Expand the party’s outreach beyond conventional political groups
- Provide a platform for spiritual voices to participate in social and public discussions
Tej Pratap Yadav has often been associated with religious symbolism and spiritual practices, making this move a natural extension of his political persona.
Swami Umakant Maharaj Appointed National President
The party has appointed Swami Shri Umakant Maharaj, also known as Umakant Nunhera Ji, as the National President of the Sant Prakoshth. The leadership believes that his influence and standing within the saint community will help build trust and widen the party’s grassroots presence.
This appointment is being seen as a strategic organisational step, rather than a symbolic gesture.
Expanding Beyond Bihar
Tej Pratap Yadav has made it clear that his political ambitions are not limited to Bihar. The formation of the Sant Prakoshth aligns with the party’s broader plan to expand nationally.
He has repeatedly stated that Jan Shakti Janata Dal aims to emerge as a national political alternative, with organisational development taking place state by state.
Focus on West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh
As part of this expansion strategy:
- The party plans to contest the upcoming elections in West Bengal
- It has also announced participation in the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections
Entering these politically significant states is expected to help the party gain wider recognition at the national level.
Digital Outreach to Connect with the Public
Tej Pratap Yadav has also revealed that the party’s official website is under development and will be launched soon. Through digital platforms, the party aims to:
- Communicate its policies and programmes more effectively
- Engage directly with youth and first-time voters
- Strengthen organisational transparency and visibility
A New Strategy After Electoral Setback
In the previous Bihar Assembly elections, Tej Pratap Yadav faced defeat after contesting from the Mahua constituency, having given up his traditional Hasanpur seat. The loss raised questions about his political strategy.
Since then, he appears focused on rebuilding the party structure, introducing new organisational wings, and broadening the party’s appeal beyond its traditional support base.
What This Means for Bihar Politics
The creation of the Sant Prakoshth reflects a changing political approach where religion, culture, and organisation-building intersect. Whether this move translates into electoral success remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added a new dimension to Bihar’s political landscape.
