As Bihar gears up for its assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, through virtual rallies, likened the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners to the unified Pandavas, emphasizing their collective strength and the 20 years of development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. He contrasted this with the opposition’s “Mahathugbandhan,” which he characterized as a disunified group rife with internal conflict.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addressed rallies, calling the NDA’s election manifesto “fake propaganda” and questioning its job creation promises. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, the INDIA bloc’s chief ministerial candidate, focused on improving law and order and pledged a government job for every household within 20 months.
The election campaign is poised for a sharp divide between fears of a return to “jungle raj” and the electorate’s aspirations for jobs, women’s empowerment, and industrial growth. The voting is scheduled for November 6 and 11 across the state’s 243 seats.
Vadra, during her rallies, urged voters to look beyond the “hollow promises” of the ruling alliance, accusing them of neglecting jobs and development for a decade. She drew parallels between the current political landscape and the Indian freedom struggle, emphasizing the importance of the Constitution and the right to vote.
Amit Shah, adapting to disruptions caused by heavy rains, addressed voters virtually. He urged them to reject the opposition’s alleged “jungle raj” and instead favor the NDA’s governance track record. Shah highlighted the NDA’s commitment to Bihar’s development and listed promises such as reopening sugar mills and improving infrastructure. He also drew on local history in Gopalganj, the birthplace of RJD patriarch Lalu Prasad, to caution against the return of the RJD’s rule.
Other leaders, including BJP President JP Nadda and LJP (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan, also campaigned, criticizing the opposition’s promises and advocating for the NDA’s agenda. Paswan outlined plans for industry development and skill enhancement to make Bihar a “global skill hub.”
On the INDIA alliance’s side, Tejashwi Yadav actively countered the NDA’s narrative by highlighting law and order issues and promising significant job creation. He also addressed concerns about family unity within the RJD, emphasizing a collective push for progress.
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav also criticized the BJP and the NDA, calling the current elections a contest between “employment and BJP.” He predicted the BJP’s departure from Bihar, attributing the state’s migration issues to their policies.
Bhojpuri singer Pawan Singh, campaigning for the NDA, stressed the importance of continued development under the “double-engine” government of Modi and Nitish Kumar.
The election narrative remains focused on development versus perceived instability, with leaders using a mix of virtual and in-person rallies to connect with voters. The outcome on November 14 is expected to significantly shape Bihar’s political future.