Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sharply criticized the opposition alliance in Bihar, labeling it a “lathbandhan,” which translates to a “coalition of criminals,” asserting that its leaders are out on bail. Addressing young BJP workers via the NaMo App, he urged all NDA partners to campaign collaboratively for the upcoming two-phase Bihar elections next month, emphasizing the need to showcase the achievements of the NDA government in the state.
The Prime Minister introduced a new campaign slogan, “Raftaar pakad chuka Bihar, phir se NDA sarkar” (Bihar has picked up speed, an NDA government again), highlighting the state’s ongoing all-round development, marked by the construction of schools, hospitals, and new rail routes. He attributed this progress to the stability provided by the current government at both the national and state levels.
PM Modi Urges Youth Participation
Modi encouraged the youth to actively participate in the ‘Run for Unity’ on October 31, an event commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
The Prime Minister is set to commence his campaign for the Bihar elections with public addresses in Samastipur and Begusarai on Friday. The state’s elections are scheduled for November 6 and 11, with vote counting on November 14.
Modi reiterated that the people of Bihar would not forget the “Jungle Raj” for the next century, stating that the opposition’s attempts to conceal past wrongdoings would not be forgiven.
He commended Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the NDA for their efforts in lifting Bihar out of the ‘Jungle Raj’ and re-establishing the rule of law, noting that residents now take pride in identifying themselves as ‘Bihari’.
Emphasis on Ground Presence and Voter Engagement
Addressing BJP workers, Modi stressed the importance of maintaining a strong presence among the people, stating, “We all need to be amongst people 24×7 for the next 20 days.” He specifically advised BJP youth workers to engage with first-time voters, educating them about the significance of their vote.
Coinciding with Tejashwi Yadav being named the Mahagathbandhan’s chief ministerial candidate, Modi directly targeted the RJD-Congress alliance. He declared it not a “gathbandhan” but a “lathbandhan” due to the alleged criminal backgrounds of its leaders, all of whom, he claimed, were out on bail.
“Those who call themselves gathbandhan (alliance), the people of Bihar call them a lathbandhan (coalition of criminals). They only know how to wield the stick and fight. For the people of the lathbandhan, their own self-interest is supreme,” he asserted.
PM Modi Denounces Opposition as ‘Lathbandhan’
Modi further stated that the “lathbandhan” coalition shows no concern for Bihar’s youth. He recalled how for decades, the youth of Bihar and the nation suffered from Naxalism and Maoist terrorism, suggesting that these opposition leaders prioritized their personal gain over the youth’s welfare, winning elections by aligning with such elements.
Highlighting the power of the vote, Modi expressed confidence that the people of Bihar understand its importance better than anyone else, which is why, after ending the ‘Jungle Raj,’ they are determined not to let it return.
He urged BJP workers to ensure that elders share their experiences of the ‘Jungle Raj’ era with the younger generation at every booth, thereby educating them about the past atrocities.
Modi concluded by stating that the Bihar assembly polls mark an opportunity to write a new chapter in the state’s history, with the youth playing a pivotal role.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment and Economic Development
The Prime Minister envisioned a new era of women’s empowerment in Bihar starting November 14, following the NDA’s anticipated return to power. He encouraged BJP workers to identify women who have yet to benefit from the CM Mahila Rozgar Yojana and assure them of inclusion in the scheme.
Modi also emphasized the need for collaborative campaigning by all NDA parties to inform voters about various government schemes. He underscored the importance of developing technology and start-up hubs in Bihar, ensuring that the state’s youth can find rewarding employment opportunities without needing to migrate elsewhere.
The INDIA opposition bloc had earlier declared RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav as their chief ministerial candidate for the Bihar elections.