Bagaha (Bihar), Oct 22 (NationPress) As the Assembly elections approach, women involved with the JEEViKA initiative in Bagaha, Bihar, have clearly defined their political allegiance. Their confidence is placed in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Dismissing the commitments and proposals put forth by Tejashwi Yadav, these 'JEEViKA Didis' express that under Nitish's governance, they have experienced safety, empowerment, and self-sufficiency — aspects they believe could diminish with a return to the dreaded 'jungle raj'.

"Our faith lies with Nitish Kumar rather than with Tejashwi," states Manju Devi, a seasoned member of the JEEViKA initiative. "He has guaranteed our safety, allowing us to traverse freely without trepidation. During elections, promises abound, yet we have witnessed the aftermath. Even Lalu ji made grand pledges, but we were met with jungle raj. We refuse to revert to that."

Other women in the vicinity voiced similar views. In conversation with IANS, they responded to Yadav’s electoral assurance that his administration would ensure all JEEViKA Didis achieve permanent status, become government employees, and see their salaries rise to Rs 30,000.

"No, I don’t trust Tejashwi," remarks Nirmala Devi. "Nitish Kumar safeguards women. We feel secure under his rule."

Ramwati Devi highlighted the real benefits from participating in JEEViKA. "We have received essentials such as rations and cooking oil through government initiatives. The self-help groups have fostered our financial independence — we’re earning now. Nitish Kumar has done a lot for us."

Bindu Devi emphasized the financial assistance she has obtained: "Both PM Modi and CM Nitish have supported us. That’s why we will cast our votes for them. I joined JEEViKA this year and received Rs 10,000 to start earning. That’s genuine support."

Many Didis expressed skepticism towards Tejashwi’s promises. "We receive benefits only under Nitish Kumar’s administration," stated another woman. "Why would we place our trust in someone who has yet to deliver anything for us?"

Usha, another JEEViKA participant, expressed her trust in both PM Modi and Nitish. "They’ve provided us with jobs, Rs 10,000 in financial backing, and even free electricity. We’re standing with them."

Anita Devi reiterated that sentiment: "We received Rs 10,000 through JEEViKA, and we witness the benefits daily. Tejashwi hasn’t done anything for us up to this point — so no, we don’t trust him."

Rambha Devi, a recent recruit into the program, added, "Even as a newcomer, I received Rs 10,000. Nitish Kumar is genuinely working for us."

Lastly, Abha, another JEEViKA Didi, clearly stated her position: "No, we won’t back Tejashwi Yadav. Nitish Kumar is the correct choice — for our children, for women, and for everyone."