Samrat Choudhary pledges EBC protection at BJP Patna conference
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on 22 June delivered a strong commitment to the Extremely Backward Class (EBC) community at a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-organised conference in Patna, vowing that no harm would come to the community as long as he remained in public life. The event brought together EBC leaders and workers under the NDA umbrella, with senior ministers reinforcing the government's welfare record.
Choudhary's Pledge to the EBC Community
Opening his address with slogans in honour of Karpoori Thakur, Choudhary positioned himself as both a representative and protector of Bihar's EBC population. He underscored the government's commitment to the welfare and empowerment of the community, citing Bihar's sizeable EBC demographic as a key policy priority for the NDA administration.
Law, Order, and Administrative Accountability
The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated the government's resolve on law and order, warning that action against criminals would continue without exception. He stated that the administration was determined to make Bihar crime-free and that those engaged in criminal activity would not be spared. On administrative accountability, Choudhary said officials and government employees who fail to complete legitimate public work within a stipulated timeframe would face disciplinary action, with repeated non-compliance leading to suspension.
NEET Controversy Response
Addressing the recent NEET examination controversy, Choudhary claimed the examination had been conducted successfully and that the government had acted promptly once irregularities came to light. He said he had been personally monitoring developments and warned that every individual found responsible for manipulation or malpractice would be identified and prosecuted.
Opposition Targeted Over EBC Representation
Choudhary took a direct swipe at the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), asserting that the BJP has stronger legislative representation of EBC members than the principal opposition party — a claim that reflects the intensifying contest over backward-class politics in Bihar ahead of future electoral cycles.
Minister Chandravanshi Highlights Welfare Schemes
Bihar Minister Pramod Chandravanshi praised several welfare initiatives linked to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted the construction of household toilets under government schemes, arguing these had improved the dignity and safety of women from economically weaker sections. On the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme, Chandravanshi said eligible poor families can now access health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh, removing the need to sell property or take on debt for medical treatment. He also credited the Centre with conferring the Bharat Ratna on Karpoori Thakur, accusing opposition parties of having neglected Thakur's legacy. Chandravanshi urged EBC community members to participate actively and confidently in politics and public life, assuring them of continued government support.
The conference signals the BJP's intent to consolidate its EBC base in Bihar well ahead of the next electoral contest, with welfare delivery and identity politics forming the twin pillars of its outreach strategy.