New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a forceful attack on the Opposition during a public rally in Araria as voting continued in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly election. Addressing a packed gathering, he accused the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress of spreading misinformation and prioritising the interests of infiltrators over the welfare of the state.
Modi said the Opposition was attempting to divert attention from its record by circulating false claims and organising protests. His remarks came against the backdrop of INDIA bloc demonstrations targeting the Special Intensive Revision process.
The Prime Minister contrasted his leadership approach with what he described as the arrogance of previous administrations. He told the crowd that earlier governments projected themselves as rulers, while he considered the people of Bihar as the only authority he answers to. Modi said that the strength of any position he holds comes from citizens rather than political dynasties.
As voters in 121 constituencies cast their ballots, Modi used the occasion to highlight the Bharatiya Janata Party led alliance’s themes of development and security. He criticised the RJD for what he called a long phase of misrule in the 1990s, claiming that the period brought widespread lawlessness, corruption and fear. According to him, that era stalled Bihar’s progress and denied opportunities to an entire generation.
Modi contrasted that past with efforts made under the current coalition, arguing that improvements in governance and infrastructure have put the state on a steadier path. He said that the turnout at his rally, which drew a crowd spilling beyond the venue, reflected public sentiment ahead of the election’s remaining phases.
Revisiting the RJD’s earlier tenure, Modi said the state witnessed minimal development between 1990 and 2005. He noted the absence of major road projects during that period and accused the then government of mismanaging public resources.
With polling now underway across the state, the Prime Minister’s rally in Araria signalled a sharpened campaign message from the BJP as it seeks to retain influence in one of the most politically competitive states in the country.
