Key Points
New Delhi: It has been two decades since his partys absolute reign ended in Bihar but Lalu Prasad Yadavs 15 years of so-called jungle raj continues to interest authors, political commentators, and journalists, who are still writing books on the former chief minister and his rule..
Through the years, Lalu has appeared on the covers of several books from Sankarshan Thakurs Subaltern Saheb and The Brothers Bihari, to Neena Jhas Lalu Prasad: Indias Miracle..
Mrityunjay Sharmas Broken Promises: Caste, Crime and Politics in Bihar is the latest addition in the long list of books on Lalu and Bihars politics..
During the 50-minute conversation moderated by Kala, panellist Varma talked about his experiences and encounters with Bihar politicians, contrasting between the states past and present.. Author Sharma, who is currently the chief election manager for the BJP in Jharkhand, described Bihar under Lalu as a failed state with a floundering economy, widespread corruption, lawlessness, bloody wars between private caste armies, and an apathetic political leadership...
And I have personally been a witness to the decline of the one hope that Bihar seemed to have, which was Nitish Kumar, he said.. Varma pointed out that after 30 years of Nitish and Lalus rule, Bihar is exactly where it was 70 years ago..
