Nitish Kumar Launches Subtle Attack on RJD, Accuses Lalu Prasad of Neglecting Bihar
In a pointed critique during his Samriddhi Yatra, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday indirectly targeted Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his family, alleging they prioritized personal advancement over state welfare. The remarks came as Kumar filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha seat and campaigned in Supaul and Madhepura districts, where he inaugurated projects worth Rs 872 crore.
CM Nitish Kumar Contrasts NDA Rule with Pre-2005 Era
Addressing a crowd in Supaul, Nitish Kumar referenced past governance under Lalu Prasad, stating, "They messed up things in Bihar. Did nothing for the development of the state. Installed his wife as the CM when he was forced to quit, but we have been constantly working for the welfare of women." He urged voters to disregard political rivals and highlighted the transformative impact of NDA rule since 2005.
Kumar painted a grim picture of Bihar before the NDA came to power, noting widespread fear, communal clashes between Hindus and Muslims, poor education and healthcare systems, and inadequate infrastructure. "Roads were very few, and electricity supply was scarce. We have been continuously engaged in development for 20 years, fostering love, brotherhood, and peace," he asserted, crediting initiatives like graveyard fencing for reducing disputes.
Future Roadmap: Employment, Infrastructure, and Welfare
Outlining an ambitious development plan for 2025-2030, CM Nitish Kumar emphasized job creation, industrial expansion, and women's welfare schemes. He announced a target of providing employment to one crore youth over the next five years, supported by economic packages for entrepreneurs and self-employment incentives.
Infrastructure growth remains a key focus, with plans for urban expansion, modern city development, and enhanced connectivity through five new expressways and widened rural roads. Additionally, the government is promoting solar energy by installing panels on rooftops and developing tourist destinations to boost the state's economy.
Political Reactions and Counterattacks
Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary reinforced Nitish Kumar's commitment, stating, "Nitish Ji is not going anywhere; we will continue getting his guidance for the state's growth." However, RJD leader Rohini Acharya, daughter of Lalu Prasad, dismissed the Samriddhi Yatra as a "Farewell Journey," criticizing Kumar's long tenure for failing to bring prosperity to Bihar.
As polling for the Rajya Sabha seat approaches on March 16, these exchanges underscore the intensifying political rivalry in Bihar, with development records becoming a central battleground.
