Patna (Bihar) [India], March 30: A war of words erupted between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, over Bihar’s development and governance as political temperatures rise ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
Tejashwi Yadav Slams Amit Shah’s Claims
Responding to Amit Shah’s speech, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav criticized the BJP-led central government for making big promises during elections but failing to deliver post-polls.
“When there is an election, big announcements are made, which are reduced to mere statements after the elections. If he is saying PM Modi has given money to Bihar, then he should tell in which sectors financial aid has been provided… He has not highlighted what work has been done in the last 20 years,” Yadav said.
Misa Bharti Defends Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Legacy
RJD MP Misa Bharti also took a dig at Shah, stating that Lalu Prasad Yadav had played a crucial role in Bihar’s development.
“When Lalu Yadav was Railway Minister, he gave Bihar three factories. Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi’s government also established six universities in Bihar. Amit Shah should have done his homework before coming to Patna,” Bharti asserted.
Amit Shah Criticizes ‘Jungle Raj’ and Highlights BJP’s Development Work
During his address, Amit Shah launched a scathing attack on RJD’s tenure (1990-2005), calling it an era of “Jungle Raj” and corruption, citing the fodder scam.
“What did Lalu Yadav’s government do in Bihar from 1990 to 2005? His government will always be known as ‘Jungle Raj’ in Bihar’s history,” Shah said.
He contrasted Nitish Kumar’s governance and PM Modi’s leadership, stating that under their rule, Bihar has seen significant improvements in infrastructure and welfare schemes.
“During Nitish Kumar’s tenure, roads, electricity, and tap water have reached every village. PM Modi has worked to uplift Bihar’s poor by providing houses, toilets, water, medicines, and ration,” Shah claimed.
BJP’s Focus on Agriculture, Industry, and PACS Strengthening
Shah also highlighted BJP’s agricultural initiatives, particularly in strengthening Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).
- Maize Processing: “We have invested Rs 1,000 crore in a maize processing center to support farmers.”
- Revival of Sugar Mills: “We are working to restart closed sugar mills to boost employment and production.”
- PACS Expansion: “PACS are now opening pharmacy stores and petrol pumps to create new business opportunities.”
BJP Gears Up for Bihar Elections
Amit Shah is currently on a two-day visit to Bihar, holding meetings with local leaders as the BJP gears up for the Bihar Assembly elections later this year.