Prashant Kishor and Nitish Kumar: The Cost of Political Loyalty
The political arena is often a game of numbers, alliances, and negotiations. One such prominent figure in this game is Prashant Kishor, the brain behind Nitish Kumar's successful campaigns and the recent upsurge in the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Janata Dal Uncoli (JDU) in Uttar Pradesh (UP) elections. Cue into the dynamics of power and money in Indian politics as we delve into the controversial aspects of the 'political fee' associated with Kishor.
The Rise of Prashant Kishor
Prashant Kishor, a veteran political strategist and journalist, has been a key driver for political alliances and campaign strategies. His advisory role with Nitish Kumar has been instrumental in shaping the political landscape of UP. The question, however, arises: what is the monetary cost behind such a strategic alliance?
A Political Fee: Beyond Salary
According to sources, the 'political fee' for Prashant Kishor's services to Nitish Kumar is pegged at a staggering ?20 crores, a figure that includes not only his own salary but those of his 150 staff members as well. This hefty cost represents a significant investment for both the JDU and SP.
A Divide Within the BJP
This arrangement comes amidst the backdrop of a contentious period in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Prashant Kishor, a luminary in the BJP, found himself at odds with the party leadership, particularly Amit Shah. The BJP did not offer him a Rajya Sabha (RS) seat, a move that he interpreted as a sign of disaffection.
Why is it Lesser than Market Rate?
Despite his pivotal role and the monumental impact his advisory services have had, the compensation for Kishor is reportedly less than the market rate. This lower payment can be traced back to Kishor's decision to seek retribution against Amit Shah, who he believes undermined his position.
The Real Costs of Political Services
While the figures may seem staggering, they are a mere representation of the broader cost of political advice and campaign strategies in the Indian political system. This includes the financial investments, personal and professional sacrifices, and the strategic shifts in alliances.
Implications for Future Campaigns
The financial demands of political strategists like Kishor highlight the increasing financialization of Indian politics. For Nitish Kumar and his alliances, this bold investment reflects their confidence in Kishor's ability to deliver results. However, it also raises questions about the sustainability of such large-scale advisory arrangements and the potential risks associated with relying heavily on a single strategic mind.
Conclusion
The political fee paid to Prashant Kishor by Nitish Kumar not only highlights the personal relationships and strategic alliances that define Indian politics but also sheds light on the high costs associated with winning elections. As the dynamics of Indian politics continue to evolve, the influence of such strategic partnerships and the associated financial implications will undoubtedly remain a focal point of public and political discourse.
Keywords: Prashant Kishor, Nitish Kumar, political fee