Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has officially launched his party's election campaign with a powerful address that combined showcasing his government's achievements with sharp criticism of rival Lalu Prasad Yadav's legacy on women's issues.
Women Empowerment Takes Center Stage
Addressing a gathering in Patna, Kumar emphasized his government's landmark decision to provide 50% reservation for women in local body elections. "We took the bold step of ensuring 50% reservation for women in panchayats and local bodies," the JD(U) leader stated, positioning himself as a champion of women's rights.
Direct Attack on Lalu's Legacy
In his most pointed remarks, Kumar questioned what the RJD patriarch had accomplished for women during his lengthy political career. "He was in power for so many years, but what did he do for women's empowerment?" Kumar asked the crowd, drawing a clear contrast between his governance and the previous RJD regime.
Highlighting Government Initiatives
The Chief Minister detailed several key initiatives his administration has implemented for women's welfare:
- 50% reservation for women in local governance
- Complete prohibition of alcohol in the state
- Various educational and economic empowerment schemes
- Enhanced security measures for women's safety
Setting the Election Narrative
Political analysts see Kumar's focus on women's issues as a strategic move to consolidate the women's vote bank, which has shown strong support for his liquor ban policy despite some opposition. The emphasis on his women empowerment record versus Lalu's perceived inaction aims to create a clear differentiation between the ruling coalition and opposition parties.
As Bihar prepares for upcoming assembly elections, Kumar's campaign launch signals that women's welfare and security will be central themes in the JD(U)'s electoral strategy, potentially forcing other parties to respond to his government's track record on gender issues.
