Rajnath Singh Predicts NDA Victory in Bihar Elections
NDA's Confidence in Bihar Elections
On Wednesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will secure a two-thirds majority in the upcoming Bihar elections. He noted that the public is comparing the governance of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's two-decade tenure.
While addressing an election rally in Banka district, Singh remarked, "There has not been a single corruption allegation against Nitish Kumar, whereas many leaders from the RJD are embroiled in corruption cases."
Comparative Governance and Health Budget
Singh highlighted that during the RJD's rule, citizens faced intimidation, whereas the NDA government has prioritized public welfare. He stated, "The health budget in Bihar was merely ₹700 crores under RJD, but it has surged to ₹20,000 crores under the NDA government. This reflects our commitment to public health."
Criticism of Congress and RJD
Targeting the Congress party, Singh claimed, "The Congress never wanted to improve roads in border areas, and the RJD also opposed development in Bihar. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has eradicated the anti-development mindset from Indian politics." He added that when Modi took office, India's economy was ranked 11th globally, and it has now risen to 5th, with aspirations to reach 3rd place soon.
Terrorism and National Security
Discussing terrorism, Singh mentioned the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, stating that India has destroyed terrorist hideouts in neighboring countries under 'Operation Sindoor'. He warned, "If terrorists attempt such actions again, we will respond even more forcefully. Operation Sindoor is not over; it has only been paused." Singh accused the Congress of politicizing the armed forces, asserting that the NDA does not discriminate based on caste, religion, or creed.
Commitment to Development
He emphasized that the NDA is committed to fulfilling its promises made in the manifesto and is the only coalition capable of transforming Bihar into a developed state. Singh remarked, "Some terrorists infiltrated quietly; they did not come openly. Our soldiers were killed after their religion was questioned. What followed is well-known. We have dismantled major terrorist bases during Operation Sindoor, which is not concluded yet. India is no longer seen as a weak nation but as a powerful one on the global stage, with its reputation significantly enhanced."
On Rahul Gandhi's Remarks
In response to Rahul Gandhi's comments, Singh stated, "Our soldiers have only one religion, which is 'Sainya Dharma'. There is no other religion. Do not involve our army in politics. Whenever the nation has faced challenges, our soldiers have showcased their bravery, elevating India's stature. The politics of caste and religion has harmed the country, and we aim for the upliftment of all societal segments without discrimination."