Intense Political Campaigning in Bihar Ahead of Elections
Political Landscape Heating Up in Bihar
The political atmosphere in Bihar is becoming increasingly charged as the election approaches. On the final day of campaigning for the first phase, prominent leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched sharp attacks on the opposition, labeling the grand alliance as a symbol of the return of 'jungle raj'. In response, Rahul Gandhi criticized Nitish Kumar, calling him the 'remote-controlled Chief Minister' of the BJP.
Massive Turnout at Rallies
From Darbhanga to Samastipur and Aurangabad, the BJP and NDA rallies witnessed an overwhelming turnout. During a conversation with female party workers, Prime Minister Modi noted the unprecedented participation of women in this election cycle, expressing confidence in a resounding victory for the NDA in Bihar. He emphasized that the mothers and sisters of Bihar would not allow the atrocities and insecurity of the 'Lalu era' to return, urging women to ensure maximum voter turnout.
Amit Shah's Strong Warning
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a powerful message in Darbhanga, warning that if any mistakes occur on November 6, Bihar could once again become synonymous with murder, robbery, kidnapping, and extortion. He urged the public to press the 'lotus' button to prevent the return of the 'Lalu-Rabri jungle raj'. Shah also announced an investment of ₹26,000 crores for the development of Mithilanchal, stating that Bihar would become self-reliant in areas from flood control to irrigation.
Yogi Adityanath's Direct Attack
In Samastipur, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directly targeted the opposition, asserting that bulldozers would now operate against mafia elements in Bihar, redistributing their wealth to the poor. He expressed a vision of restoring Bihar as a land of knowledge, claiming that the NDA government has achieved an excellent balance between development and heritage.
Rajnath Singh Defends Nitish Kumar
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking in Vaishali, defended Nitish Kumar, stating that there have been no allegations of corruption against him. He highlighted that Kumar's integrity has become synonymous with good governance in Bihar. Singh pointed out that while the previous UPA government allocated only ₹2 lakh crores to Bihar, the Modi administration has provided ₹15 lakh crores over the past decade.
Rahul Gandhi's Counterattack
Conversely, Rahul Gandhi, addressing a rally in Aurangabad, referred to Nitish Kumar as a 'hostage' of the BJP, asserting that his government would never return to power in Bihar. He accused Modi and Shah of changing channels remotely, claiming that Kumar merely follows orders from Delhi. Gandhi also alleged that the BJP is involved in a conspiracy to 'steal votes' and criticized Modi for distracting youth with discussions about reels and substance abuse.
A Pivotal Moment in Bihar Politics
As Bihar's political scene reaches a critical juncture, the contrasting narratives of Modi, Shah, Yogi, and Rajnath promoting 'development, good governance, and faith' clash with Rahul Gandhi's accusations of 'vote theft and remote control'. The electorate's decision on November 6 will reveal whether they place their trust in the 'lotus' or the return of the 'grand alliance'.