Tejashwi Yadav Critiques Nitish Kumar's Mahila Samvad Yatra as 'Misappropriation' of Public Funds

Patna, Dec 10 (NationPress) RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asserted on Tuesday that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Mahila Samvad Yatra was merely a picnic funded by taxpayers' money.
This statement has sparked a conflict between the ruling party and the opposition.
"The Bihar Cabinet sanctioned around Rs 226 crore for the Chief Minister's extensive publicity tour, which represents an unnecessary burden on public finances," he stated.
The Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly accused the administration of favoring public relations over essential welfare matters, particularly neglecting the requirements of female students and women.
He noted that specific amounts (Rs 10–18 crore) were allocated for discussions on trivial topics, which offered no substantial benefits to the public.
By presenting these figures and associating them with the Chief Minister's Yatra, Tejashwi Yadav sought to galvanize public sentiment against what he considers a misuse of funds.
This critique is poised to heighten political tensions in Bihar, as the ruling coalition may retaliate by defending the spending as a vital aspect of governance outreach or development initiatives.
The discourse highlights a broader theme of governance accountability versus political image.
Nitish Kumar is set to commence the Mahila Samvad Yatra on December 15 from the Bagaha block in West Champaran district. He plans to visit every district across the state and engage with the people of Bihar, especially women, in the lead-up to the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
During the Yatra, CM Nitish will interact with tribal women to better understand their challenges and gather insights on his government's performance.
CM Nitish has frequently credited his pro-women initiatives—such as liquor prohibition, enhanced educational opportunities, and healthcare reforms—for his prior electoral triumphs.
The Yatra also seeks to rejuvenate CM Nitish's development strategy amid evolving political conditions in the state.