Is PM Modi's Bihar Visit an Election Strategy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's visits to Bihar are seen as politically motivated.
- The NDA is perceived to be losing confidence ahead of elections.
- RJD is vocal against the BJP's tactics to distract from real issues.
- Public awareness in Bihar is on the rise.
- Allegations against RJD leaders are dismissed as politically driven.
Patna, June 20 (NationPress) On his visit to the residence of former Bihar Chief Minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Rabri Devi on Friday, the State party President Mangani Lal Mandal made pointed political comments, labeling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's repeated trips to the state as a strategic maneuver by the National Democratic Alliance in light of internal turmoil and increasing anti-incumbency sentiments.
While addressing reporters, Mandal noted that PM Modi's fifth trip to Bihar in recent months signifies the dwindling strength of the NDA, particularly the JD-U, and the BJP's diminishing confidence as the state Assembly elections approach.
"The NDA is unsettled. The Prime Minister's repeated visits to Bihar are not out of genuine concern for the populace but rather due to the political turmoil within the alliance," the State RJD President claimed.
Mandal further questioned the impact of the Prime Minister's visits, asserting that mere inaugurations and announcements cannot alter the existing realities on the ground.
"People are increasingly politically conscious. These foundation stone ceremonies will not erase the misgovernance seen over the last two decades," he stated.
Regarding the recent uproar over the alleged disrespect shown to B.R. Ambedkar during Lalu Prasad Yadav's 78th birthday celebration, Mandal vehemently denied the accusations, labeling them as "politically driven" and "based on manipulated visuals."
He confirmed he was present at the event, asserting, "No disrespect occurred. The circulated video is false and part of the BJP's strategy to tarnish our party's reputation. The BJP is misleading the people of Bihar with falsehoods," Mandal emphasized.
He also accused the BJP of employing diversionary tactics to detract attention from critical public issues such as unemployment, rising prices, and the law and order situation in Bihar.
During his visit to Siwan, PM Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development initiatives exceeding Rs 5,700 crore.
However, the Grand Alliance has asserted that these visits by PM Modi are strategically timed to sway the electoral climate in the state before the upcoming Assembly elections.