Is the Bihar election a clash of development versus jungle raj?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Bihar elections are framed as a choice between development and chaos.
- Record voter turnout reflects public engagement and sentiment.
- Good governance is highlighted as a key to progress.
- Historical references are used to emphasize the importance of peace.
- Leaders express confidence in NDA's success.
Bihar, Nov 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful speech at a large public gathering in Bettiah, West Champaran, framing the upcoming elections as a contest between “development and jungle raj.”
This rally coincided with an impressive voter turnout in the initial phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, which NDA leaders celebrated as evidence of increasing backing for their coalition.
During his address, PM Modi referenced historical events to reinforce his political stance, stating that Vande Mataram was fragmented in 1937, which planted the seeds for the partition.
He urged citizens to reject the “katta sarkar” (the regime of armed violence), clearly targeting the RJD-led alliance, and to support those committed to ensuring peace and progress.
Following PM Modi’s speech, former Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti shared similar sentiments with IANS, questioning, “Do the people of Bihar desire a government run by thugs and weapons or one focused on development?”
She highlighted the advancements in women’s empowerment and agricultural welfare under NDA governance since 2014.
BJP MP Sunil Kumar from Valmiki Nagar noted that Champaran, once infamous as “mini-Chambal” due to its banditry, has seen significant transformation under Nitish Kumar’s leadership.
“Currently, there’s effective governance. Every community has experienced development. Girls are attending school, women have gained empowerment, and job opportunities are rising. The NDA will succeed under Nitish Kumar’s guidance,” he stated to IANS.
In agreement, MP Sanjay Jaiswal remarked, “Champaran used to harbor over 245 dacoit gangs. Even impoverished families weren’t secure. That has changed with sushasan (good governance). The remarkable turnout indicates public trust in the current administration. We aim to secure all 21 seats here.”
Bihar minister and BJP candidate Renu Devi from Bettiah asserted that the substantial first-phase turnout makes the NDA’s victory “inevitable.” “The RJD will never win again. The populace remembers the jungle raj,” she claimed.
MLA Umakant Singh recounted, “Previously, Bihar was dominated by violence. Children wielded guns instead of books. However, over the last two decades, development has permeated every village, resulting in the construction of schools, colleges, and roads.”