.. The results of the Lok Sabha elections in Bihar (has) conclusively proved that Laloo Prasad Yadav was the sole occupant of the non-BJP-Samata Party space in the State leaving the Janata Dal struggling for survival - and the security deposit. ...

Having touched its nadir in terms of electoral fortune ... in a State where battle lines are clearly drawn between pro and anti-Laloo forces, reviving the party ... is bound be an arduous task. Sooner or later, state leaders of the JD will have to swallow their pride to join hands with Laloo if they want to face the challenge thrown by the BJP-Samata alliance ...

(Source: The Indian Express, 23 March, 1998)