The Core Contrast: ‘Sports vs. Weapons’
In his speech, the Prime Minister drew a sharp contrast between his government's vision for Bihar's youth and that of the RJD. He stated that the NDA is equipping children with sports equipment like hockey sticks, footballs, and volleyballs to help them move forward. In a pointed attack, he alleged that RJD leaders want to give the youth "katta" (a crude firearm) and "dunali" (a double-barrelled gun).
“These people want to make your children ‘rangdars’ (a term implying someone who colours or tarnishes, often used pejoratively for those with criminal inclinations),” PM Modi told the crowd, asking if the people of Bihar approved of this. He framed the upcoming election as a choice between "jungle raj," which he equated with cruelty, bitterness, and corruption, and the NDA's development agenda.
Accusations of Nepotism and a Stalled Bihar
The Prime Minister further accused the RJD of nepotism, claiming that the party reserves dreams of becoming MPs, MLAs, ministers, and Chief Ministers only for its own children, while aiming to lead the children of Bihar's citizens astray.
He blamed the 15 years of RJD-led "jungle raj" for halting Bihar's progress, asserting that no major factories, hospitals, or medical colleges were established during that period. He mentioned that even the existing mills and factories in Mithila were shut down, destroying the atmosphere for development in the state.
NDA’s Development Pitch and Promises
Positioning himself as the NDA’s key campaigner, PM Modi sought to rebuild trust, asserting that the NDA government under Nitish Kumar has restored the faith that was broken during the RJD's tenure. He highlighted that investors are now eager to come to Bihar, citing improved roads, and better rail and air connectivity.
Touching upon a specific poll promise cited by opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav in the recent Lok Sabha elections , the Prime Minister announced the revival of the Riga sugar mill and promised that the work of setting up more such mills and factories would be strengthened with full force. He also mentioned promoting ethanol production from sugarcane to benefit farmers.
“The BJP-NDA does what it says. And Modi’s guarantee means a guarantee of fulfillment,” he said, underscoring his government's track record.
Positioning Bihar on the Global Map
To illustrate his commitment to Bihar’s talent, PM Modi recounted instances where he promoted the state's Madhubani paintings on global platforms. He mentioned gifting the artwork to the Vice President of Argentina and the President of South Korea during the G20 summit in Delhi, positioning himself as a "brand ambassador" for the skills of Bihar’s people.
He also pointed to the state’s progress in the fisheries sector, noting that Bihar has transformed from a fish-importer to a supplier to other states.
With the high-stakes Bihar elections underway and international election visitors scheduled to witness the polling , PM Modi's speech sets a clear battle line between the NDA's pledge of development and the opposition's alleged legacy of "jungle raj."
