Why is Priyanka Gandhi Urging Bihar Women to Accept Rs 10,000 Yet Vote Wisely?
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Synopsis
In a powerful address, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra challenges the NDA's tactics in Bihar elections, highlighting the dangers of accepting bribes disguised as aid. She calls for vigilance among voters, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making amidst rising socio-economic challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Accept the offered money, but vote wisely.
- Critique of the NDA's election tactics.
- Call for accountability in leadership.
- Importance of the caste census for social justice.
- Emphasis on the impact of migration on Bihar's families.
Patna, Nov 1 (NationPress) Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the NDA government in Bihar on Saturday, claiming that Rs 10,000 is being handed out during elections to sway voters.
Speaking at a large election rally in the Bachwada Assembly constituency of Begusarai, Gandhi remarked, “The ruling parties didn’t offer anything prior to the elections, and now they are distributing Rs 10,000. What does this imply? They require your support now, which is why they are doling out cash. Accept the money if it’s given — but vote with utmost caution. Don’t allow them to purchase your vote.”
She mentioned that she is also making promises, stating that citizens should remove the Congress if it fails to deliver.
Gandhi emphasized that Bihar is the birthplace of the freedom movement initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, questioning why the state has not seen development given its rich history.
“This land has contributed immensely to the nation. Yet, why hasn’t the current leadership adequately developed this state?” she questioned.
She asserted that the Constitution guarantees equality, liberty, and the right to vote, accusing the Modi administration of undermining those rights.
According to her, the BJP-led government engages in divisive politics centered on caste and religion while distracting citizens with irrelevant issues.
Gandhi alleged that 65 lakh votes were annulled during Special Intensive Revision (SIR), claiming that “if your vote is cut, your rights are cut.”
She pointed out that prominent BJP leaders, including the PM and Union Home Minister, campaign in Bihar but fail to address pressing issues like inflation, unemployment, and migration.
“Jobs are scarce, and families are disintegrating due to migration. From Kerala to Kashmir, I've witnessed Bihar’s residents working far and wide,” she said.
She criticized the BJP for imposing extensive taxes, privatizing national resources, and promoting contract-based employment.
Targeting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Gandhi noted that he has governed Bihar for two decades.
“Now he pledges to create 1.5 crore jobs. Why didn’t he achieve this in the last 20 years? Does he think the public is naive?” she questioned.
Gandhi accused the NDA of making promises regarding inflation and unemployment while benefiting their industrialist allies without aiding the average citizen.
She further condemned the BJP for its double-engine narrative, alleging that the Modi government makes decisions centrally from Delhi.
“Narendra Modi claims they will operate a double-engine government. I want to clarify — they lack a double engine; they operate a single engine from Delhi. You have no voice, and even your Chief Minister lacks a voice,” she asserted.
Gandhi stated that the situation fostered by Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah has compelled Bihar’s populace to migrate for survival, emphasizing that only a government change can reverse this trend.
She also referred to BJP leaders as “vote thieves.”
“Initially, they aimed to divide citizens based on castes and religions. For a time, that strategy worked. Then they attempted to divert attention. But now the public is aware — the public is awake. That’s why they are stealing votes,” she remarked.
In response to the BJP’s recurrent criticisms of previous Congress governments, Priyanka Gandhi pointed out that the BJP selectively discusses the past.
“Who established IITs, IIMs, AIIMS? These were the initiatives of Jawaharlal Nehru. When we address the past, their arguments falter. We focus on the present, not history,” she stated.
Defending Congress's position on the caste census, she questioned why Rahul Gandhi raises the topic of social justice.
She asserted that full representation for backward classes, extremely backward classes, Dalits, and Mahadalit communities is still lacking, making a caste census essential.
She noted that when Rahul Gandhi brought up the issue, the entire BJP opposed it — from Narendra Modi to the lowest-ranking leader.
Priyanka alleged that the BJP altered its position on the caste census after the Lok Sabha results.
“The BJP did not achieve the desired outcome in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and then realized the dynamics were shifting. That’s why they began discussing the caste census — but later they resorted to court and shelved it,” she concluded.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the ongoing political dynamics in Bihar. Priyanka Gandhi's assertive stance reflects the broader concerns regarding electoral integrity and socio-economic issues. The Congress party's approach aims to resonate with voters while challenging the current administration's policies. It’s crucial for the electorate to remain informed and engaged as they head to the polls.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Priyanka Gandhi say about the Rs 10,000 distribution?
Priyanka Gandhi criticized the distribution of Rs 10,000 during elections, suggesting it was an attempt to influence voters and urged them to accept the money but vote wisely.
How does Priyanka Gandhi view the current state of Bihar?
She questioned the lack of development in Bihar despite its historical significance and emphasized the need for change in leadership to address pressing issues.
What accusations did she make against the BJP government?
Gandhi accused the BJP of divisive politics, neglecting critical issues like unemployment and inflation, and targeting the common people while benefiting industrialists.
What is her stance on the caste census?
Priyanka Gandhi supports the caste census, arguing that it is necessary for achieving full representation for backward classes and addressing social justice.
What does she imply about the electoral promises made by Nitish Kumar?
She questioned why promises of job creation were not fulfilled during Kumar's 20 years of governance, suggesting that voters should hold him accountable.
