Is the Poster War in Bihar Escalating Against Lalu and Tejashwi Over Fodder Scam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Political Rivalry: The poster war illustrates the fierce competition between parties in Bihar.
- Mocking Imagery: Visuals play a crucial role in shaping public perception during elections.
- Accusations Fly: Both parties are using aggressive tactics to undermine each other.
- Public Sentiment: The reactions of supporters indicate the emotional stakes involved.
- Election Implications: Such battles may significantly influence voter behavior.
Patna, June 21 (NationPress) With the Assembly elections on the horizon in Bihar, political tensions have escalated into a fierce poster battle. A striking poster that emerged near Patna’s bustling Income Tax intersection on Saturday has ignited a new volley of accusations between the ruling party and the opposition.
This controversial poster features Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad and his son, Opposition Leader Tejashwi Yadav, depicted riding a buffalo -- with Tejashwi in front and Lalu behind, munching on grass.
The text boldly states: “Mera Baap Chara Chor, Mujhe Vote Do” (My father is a fodder thief, vote for me) -- a pointed and mocking nod to Lalu Yadav’s conviction in the fodder scam.
Though no organization has claimed responsibility for this poster, it has elicited strong reactions. Supporters of the RJD have voiced their outrage, feeling that it represents a highly personal and inappropriate political assault. The party itself has yet to release an official statement.
Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary responded to the uproar during an International Yoga Day event, reinforcing the criticism. “Lalu Yadav has been labeled a banned criminal by the Supreme Court. He is the perpetrator of the fodder scam. Where is the second opinion on this? All courts have confirmed he is indeed a fodder thief,” he stated.
In response, the RJD has initiated its own poster campaign, this time accusing the ruling NDA of favoritism. Posters have emerged in various locations featuring NDA figures like Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, State Minister Ashok Choudhary, and the late Ram Vilas Paswan alongside their sons-in-law.
These posters mockingly refer to the alliance as the “National Damaad Commission” (National Sons-in-Law Commission), charging it with nepotism.
The intensifying poster war -- infused with sarcasm, personal jabs, and trending slogans -- portrays the high-stakes climate leading up to the elections.