Did Congress' Controversial Post on Bihar and Bidis Spark a Political Firestorm?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Congress post drew immediate backlash from NDA leaders.
- The controversy highlights ongoing political tensions in Bihar.
- It raises questions about political discourse and respect.
- Both parties are gearing up for the critical assembly election.
- The NDA is poised to capitalize on this incident in its campaign.
Patna, Sep 5 (NationPress) A contentious post from the Kerala branch of the Congress party's official X account, which drew a comparison between Bihar and 'bidis', has ignited a fierce backlash from NDA leaders within the state.
The Congress promptly deleted the post following the outcry.
Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary criticized the statement, asserting, “First, they insulted the mother of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and now they are belittling all of Bihar. This reveals the true nature of Congress, exposed to the entire nation.”
JD(U) MLC and chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar stated that the INDIA bloc has made the insult of Bihar part of its political identity.
“Sometimes it's 'bidi', sometimes it's derogatory remarks towards Biharis. Bihar is home to Buddha, Sita, and Sufi saints. Tejashwi Yadav needs to clarify — does Bihar equate to bidi? The electorate will respond through EVMs,” he declared.
Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh also condemned the Congress leadership, asserting, “The senseless Rahul and his malicious Congress always mistreats Bihar… their downfall is inevitable.”
The incident arose from a now-removed post by @INCKerala, which stated: “Bidis and Bihar start from B. Cannot be considered a sin anymore.”
This controversy comes amidst an aggressive campaign by NDA leaders, following derogatory comments allegedly made about PM Modi’s late mother during the Voter Adhikar Yatra in Darbhanga.
The Prime Minister himself described the remarks as an insult not only to his mother but to the entire nation.
The BJP subsequently called for a Bihar Bandh on Thursday, with NDA leaders taking to the streets in protest. The recent Kerala Congress post has merely “fueled the flames,” further escalating tensions in the state.
With Bihar approaching a crucial Assembly election, NDA leaders perceive these issues as a significant tool to challenge the RJD-Congress alliance.
By positioning the controversy as an assault on Bihari pride and dignity, the NDA aims to refine its campaign narrative in the upcoming months.