Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took a sharp dig at Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav over the alleged disrespect of Dr BR Ambedkar during Prasad’s recent birthday celebrations.
Addressing a public rally in Bihar’s Siwan district, Modi referred to the controversial placement of Ambedkar’s portrait near Lalu’s feet during the event. “Ambedkar was opposed to dynasty politics, but they dislike that. So they place his portrait at their feet,” Modi said, without directly naming Lalu. He noted the absence of an apology for the act, saying it reflects the opposition’s disregard for Dalit leaders.
“In contrast, Modi keeps Babasaheb close to his heart,” the PM added, reinforcing his government’s commitment to Ambedkar’s ideals while accusing the RJD of contempt toward Dalits.
Modi also launched a fierce attack on the Congress and RJD, holding them responsible for Bihar’s prolonged poverty, mass migration and what he described as “jungle raj” governance.
Addressing the crowd ahead of the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, Modi accused the Congress-RJD alliance of prioritising family enrichment over public welfare. “They focused on their own families while ignoring the people. During the Congress’s licence raj, leaders became rich but the common man remained poor,” he said.
The Prime Minister said Bihar has moved past the “jungle raj” created under the previous regimes and warned voters that the same parties are once again trying to regain power. “They created the jungle raj and now they want to return. But Bihar’s people will give them a fitting reply,” he added.
The PM further contrasted NDA’s governance model with the opposition, stating, “We believe in ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, they believe in ‘Parivaar Ka Vikas’.”
Modi said Bihar had witnessed major development under NDA’s government, including the construction of 55,000 km of rural roads, electrification of over 1.5 crore homes and piped water access for 26 crore people. He also noted that India’s development is being recognised globally. “During my recent foreign visits, world leaders praised India’s progress,” he added.
Jan Suraaj Founder Prashant Kishor on Friday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bihar, claiming it was not aimed at the state’s development but solely focused on securing votes for the BJP-led NDA alliance.
Speaking to ANI, Kishor said, “PM is not coming for the first time… PM Modi is not coming for the welfare and development of Bihar but to seek votes for the BJP and NDA.” Kishor questioned the Prime Minister’s claims about new development projects in the state, pointing out that some of the initiatives were already functional. “The locomotive factory is already there in Marhowrah; it is nothing new,” he said, referring to the manufacturing unit often highlighted in government speeches.