The recent elevation of Gaya MLA Prem Kumar to the prestigious position of Speaker in the Bihar Legislative Assembly has sparked widespread reflection on an extraordinary political saga. His journey, which began in profound hardship, is a testament to the power of humility, unwavering perseverance, and quiet resolve, offering a compelling narrative in the often-turbulent world of Indian politics.
Humble Beginnings and the First Break
Prem Kumar's story originates from the most modest of circumstances, as the son of a bank peon. His early life took a difficult turn following his father's death, leaving him in a precarious financial situation that moved his contemporaries. Akhauri Niranjan, a leader from the iconic JP movement era, recalled that Prem's condition at the time "left him with moist eyes." His first major opportunity arrived in 1977 when the late home minister Sushila Sahay appointed him as her non-official personal assistant. This role provided a crucial entry point into public life.
When Sushila Sahay lost the 1980 assembly election, another guardian stepped in. Akhauri Niranjan brought Prem Kumar into his pharmaceutical business, asking for no capital investment, thus supporting him through another vulnerable phase. These early acts of mentorship laid the foundation for what was to come.
The Political Ascent and Defining Battles
The political landscape shifted decisively in 1990. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had two names for candidature from the area: Akhauri Niranjan as the first choice and Prem Kumar as the second. Historical accounts suggest that overconfidence cost Akhauri the ticket, paving the way for Prem Kumar to become the BJP candidate. "The rest is history," as Akhauri Niranjan himself later remarked.
In a twist of fate, Prem Kumar's first electoral battle was against his former mentor, Sushila Sahay. Fiction writer Sanjay Sahay, Sushila's son, remembered that Prem Kumar still sought her blessings before filing his nomination papers—a gesture highlighting his respectful demeanour. The election result marked a turning point: Prem Kumar won, Sushila Sahay finished fourth, and CPI stalwart Shakil Ahmad Khan was the runner-up. This victory was not a one-off. In 2005, Prem Kumar again demonstrated his political strength by defeating Sushila Sahay's son, Sanjay Sahay.
Reflecting on these contests, Sanjay Sahay noted, "Despite political combats, Prem conducted himself in a dignified manner, always humble and respectful." This ability to maintain grace amidst rivalry became a hallmark of his career.
A Stalwart's Legacy and Cross-Community Appeal
Prem Kumar's political tenure is marked by remarkable consistency. For most of the period between 1990 and 2025, barring two short breaks, he continuously held significant power. He either managed important ministerial portfolios or served as the Leader of the Opposition with cabinet rank. His deep connection with his constituency is evidenced by his record: he has been elected from Gaya an impressive nine times.
His recent assumption of the Speaker's role has triggered a wave of reactions from his home turf. Colleagues and observers describe a man of measured conduct. Syed Shad Alam, who knew him during the JP movement days, summarised it succinctly: "Prem Kumar has few friends and fewer enemies." Alam added a crucial insight into his broad acceptability, stating that unlike many of his contemporaries, "Prem never wore Hindutva on his sleeves," which significantly helped him retain trust and acceptance among Muslim constituents in his area.
Affectionately known in local circles as 'Muqaddar ka Sikandar' (the conqueror of destiny), Prem Kumar's journey from a bank peon's son to one of Bihar's longest-serving public figures, and now to the constitutional chair of the Assembly Speaker, completes a classic narrative of Indian democracy. It is a story where humility and perseverance ultimately shaped destiny.
