The Chhath festivities have concluded in Bihar, and the political landscape has shifted dramatically. Election campaigns are now in full swing, with leaders from both major alliances launching aggressive efforts to sway voters. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as the 2025 Bihar Assembly polls approach. Key issues such as unemployment, corruption, and governance reforms dominate the discourse.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took center stage at a rally in Muzaffarpur. He made bold remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of being willing to do anything for votes. Gandhi’s comments sparked immediate backlash from the BJP, setting the tone for a heated exchange.
Gandhi did not hold back in his critique. He claimed that Modi would dance on stage if it meant securing votes, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. This emotional attack highlighted what he described as a disregard for the people’s real concerns.
He amplified allegations of vote manipulation in previous elections. Gandhi warned that similar attempts could be made in Bihar, accusing the BJP of undermining democratic processes. His speech focused heavily on protecting the Constitution.
Gandhi stressed that every right, from voting to education and healthcare, exists due to the Constitution framed by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. He accused the BJP and RSS of attacking this foundational document. This message resonated with many in attendance.
He also targeted the Prime Minister’s participation in Chhath Puja. Gandhi claimed Modi’s involvement was insincere and staged solely for political benefit. He mocked the photo opportunity in Delhi, suggesting it lacked genuine connection to the tradition.
The recurring issue of paper leaks in Bihar was another focal point. Gandhi called it a betrayal of the youth’s aspirations, arguing that privileged students gain unfair advantages. He referenced recent arrests in the NEET-UG case to underscore his point.
Gandhi challenged Modi to respond to claims made by former US President Donald Trump. He alleged that Trump insulted Modi internationally and referenced stopped military operations. This added an international dimension to the domestic political fray.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari fired back, labeling Gandhi a ‘local goon’. He accused the Congress leader of mocking voters and Indian democracy. Bhandari claimed the remarks insulted the poor who have supported Modi.
Delhi CM Gupta echoed these sentiments, citing political immaturity. He argued that Gandhi’s comments distanced him from the faith of millions of Chhath devotees. The backlash was swift and severe from BJP quarters.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah framed the election as a battle between progress and chaos. He warned that the return of the RJD-led alliance would plunge Bihar back into ‘jungle raj’. Shah used mythological symbolism to stress NDA unity.
He intensified his attack on dynastic politics, targeting Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sonia Gandhi. Shah claimed they were seeking top posts for their sons, but asserted that Bihar and India already have capable leaders. He vowed to protect the state’s interests.
Shah raised concerns about alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators on voter lists. He accused opposition parties of protecting them for votes and promised their removal with an NDA victory. Expanding on security, he cited PFI’s alleged efforts to spread extremism.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched a scathing attack on the RJD. He questioned whether Biharis feel ashamed of Lalu Prasad Yadav’s corruption charges and jail time. Singh asserted that RJD’s governance had tarnished Bihar’s image globally.
He criticized the Mahagathbandhan’s poll promises as unrealistic. Singh mocked the pledge to provide a government job to every household, urging leaders to practice politics of truth. The electoral battleground is now clearly defined.
The NDA and Mahagathbandhan are set for a high-stakes contest. With Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj movement entering the fray, the dynamics are even more complex. Polling will occur in two phases, with results due in mid-November.