Will Bihar Voters Press EVMs So Hard That It Echoes in Italy?
Synopsis
Union Home Minister Amit Shah calls on Bihar voters to decisively vote against the past's lawlessness, promising revitalization of closed sugar mills and support for women self-help groups. His campaign targets key opposition figures, urging a rejection of criminal support. Will the voters heed his call this election?
Key Takeaways
Amit Shah emphasizes the need for a decisive vote.
Promises made to revive closed sugar mills.
Targeting opposition leaders' ambitions.
Support for women self-help groups highlighted.
Security measures increased around campaign events.
Patna, Nov 4 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday reiterated his concerns about the so-called “jungle raj” era associated with Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, firmly stating that the people of Bihar would not revert to that chaotic period of lawlessness.
While addressing a public gathering in West Champaran, he urged voters to press the EVM button with such vigor on November 6 and 11 that the sound resonates all the way to Italy.
Shah reflected on what he labeled as a time of extensive crime during the 1990s and early 2000s, crediting the NDA for reinstating law and order in the region.
He claimed that numerous sugar mills were shut down during the tenure of Lalu and Rabri and assured that these mills would be revived if the NDA returned to power.
Targeting Sonia Gandhi and Lalu Prasad Yadav, Shah accused one leader of trying to make her son the Prime Minister while the other aims to install his son as Chief Minister, asserting that neither chair in Delhi nor Patna is available.
Taking a jab at Rahul Gandhi, Shah mentioned that the Centre has taken decisive actions concerning national security since 2014, and he defended the abrogation of Article 370.
He charged that some opposition members are supporting criminal elements and called on voters to reject such influences.
Additionally, he alleged that deceptive claims were being spread among Jeevika Didis by opponents.
Shah reassured that there would be no need for Jeevika Didis (women self-help group members) to return any funds, stating that the government would provide an extra Rs 2 lakh to each Jeevika Didi.
Amit Shah campaigned for NDA candidate Samridh Verma in the Sikta assembly constituency.
In closing his address, Shah encouraged attendees to back the NDA candidates.
Samridh Verma is contesting in Sikta as the NDA nominee.
Security measures were heightened around the event venue.
The campaign for the first phase of the election concluded on Tuesday evening, with polling set for November 6.
Point of View
Amit Shah's statements and promises reflect the NDA's strategy to position itself as the protector of law and order in Bihar. The appeal to voters by highlighting the past reflects a common political tactic: invoking historical contexts to galvanize support. With the election nearing, it is crucial for all parties to present their visions transparently and engage genuinely with the electorate's concerns.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Amit Shah say about the 'jungle raj'?
Amit Shah referenced the chaotic 'jungle raj' era of Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, asserting that voters should not return to that lawless time.
What promises did Amit Shah make to the voters?
Shah promised to revive closed sugar mills and provide additional funds to Jeevika Didis if the NDA returned to power.
How did Amit Shah address the opposition leaders?
He targeted Sonia Gandhi and Lalu Prasad Yadav, accusing them of trying to establish their sons in significant political positions.
What is the significance of the EVM in this election?
Amit Shah urged voters to press the EVM button forcefully, symbolizing a strong mandate against the past governance.
When will the elections in Bihar take place?
The elections are scheduled for November 6, with campaigning concluding on the evening of November 4.
