PATNA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Sunday that the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) manifesto for Bihar represents an honest and forward-thinking plan for the state’s growth and prosperity. In stark contrast, he characterized the opposition’s manifesto as a collection of falsehoods and deceit.
Addressing rallies in Ara and Nawada, PM Modi stated, “The public understands everything. Those who plunged Bihar into the ‘jungle raj’ era, marked by lawlessness and the closure of industries like Dalmianagar, forcing people to migrate, cannot be trusted to bring about development.” He recalled the pre-2005 period as one of massacres and fear, where even doctors needed security and professionals feared extortion.
Modi cautioned the public against the “dangerous strategies” of the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), describing the opposition as fragmented and led by some of the most corrupt families in India and Bihar. He emphasized that the NDA, however, is a united front dedicated to Bihar’s development, acknowledging the challenging journey of transforming the state from its “dark period” of “jungle raj” and Maoist influence to its current state with various established institutions.
He also commented on the Congress’s pressured announcement of its chief ministerial candidate, suggesting internal conflict within the opposition alliance and highlighting that the Congress’s demands were not adequately reflected in their manifesto.
Drawing parallels between the RJD’s ‘Jungle Raaj’ and appeasement politics, Modi reminded the audience of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, accusing the Congress of still accommodating those involved. He criticized both parties for lacking remorse and disrespecting traditions, specifically mentioning the Chhath festival, which he noted some opposition leaders had dismissed.
The Prime Minister stressed that a ‘Developed Bihar’ is crucial for a ‘Developed India’, and the aspirations of Bihar’s youth are the NDA’s mission. He predicted a significant victory for the NDA, while forecasting a crushing defeat for the opposition, whom he warned would deter investors.
Modi reiterated his commitment to Bihar’s rapid growth through industrial and agricultural development, citing past government actions like the abrogation of Article 370 as examples of decisive leadership that, while making citizens proud, was opposed by the Congress and RJD. He also mentioned initiatives like the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme and financial support for women entrepreneurs, along with enhanced support for farmers.
Looking ahead, Modi outlined plans for enhanced focus on education and skill development, aiming to create employment opportunities within Bihar and contribute significantly to the ‘Make in India’ initiative as a hub for textiles, technology, and tourism in eastern India. He concluded by emphasizing the development of Bihar’s rich heritage, honoring figures like Babu Veer Kunwar Singh and Sachidanand Sinha.