Did Bihar Dy CM's Wife, Sushila Devi, Surpass Him in Asset Declaration?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vijay Kumar Sinha's assets total Rs 1.01 crore.
- Sushila Devi's assets amount to Rs 2.81 crore.
- The couple's total immovable assets are approximately Rs 8 crore.
- Their combined debt is around Rs 82 lakh.
- Political analysts view Sinha's nomination as a sign of BJP’s confidence.
Patna, Oct 16 (NationPress) Following Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha filing his nomination papers for the Lakhisarai Assembly constituency, his election affidavit has attracted attention, especially regarding the noteworthy disparity in assets between him and his wife, Sushila Devi.
According to the affidavit submitted to the Election Commission, Sinha reported movable assets totaling Rs 1.01 crore, comprising Rs 55,000 in cash, Rs 29 lakh in bank deposits, and stock investments exceeding Rs 45 lakh.
He also possesses 90 grams of gold valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh, alongside a rifle and a revolver worth Rs 77,181.
In stark contrast, Sushila Devi has declared movable assets amounting to Rs 2.81 crore, almost three times that of her husband.
Her declaration features 450 grams of gold valued at Rs 49.5 lakh, an SUV worth Rs 24 lakh, and a capital balance of Rs 1.27 crore in Shiva Enterprises, highlighting her significant role in business and investment.
While Sinha owns immovable properties valued at Rs 3.20 crore across Patna, Mokama, and Pune, Sushila's real estate holdings reach Rs 4.59 crore. Together, their total immovable assets are estimated at around Rs 8 crore, showcasing their position among Bihar’s affluent political families.
The affidavit also reveals liabilities of Rs 28.19 lakh in Sinha’s name, primarily from government motor car advances and dues to private firms, and Rs 54.13 lakh in Sushila's name, mainly from bank loans.
Their combined debt of approximately Rs 82 lakh is relatively modest in comparison to their total wealth.
Sinha's income sources include agriculture, a ministerial salary, rent, and bank interest, whereas Sushila earns through business, company salary, rent, and interest income.
Both individuals appear financially independent, indicating diversified income sources.
Sinha also disclosed a pending income tax case involving Rs 39.14 lakh for the 2014-15 assessment year, which remains under review by the Income Tax Department.
Political analysts suggest that Sinha’s nomination reflects the BJP’s confidence in securing the Lakhisarai seat, given his stature as Deputy Chief Minister and as a key strategist.