Patna: Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, on Sunday alleged that the state's economic condition was in a "pathetic state" and remarked that the "coffer is empty." This statement came a day after Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary subtly targeted the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) with his comment that "AI-enabled cameras could identify people wearing a green gamachha."
Tejashwi's Allegations on State Finances
"Khazana khali hai (coffer is empty)," Tejashwi told reporters at the Patna airport on Sunday, adding that the government has no money to carry out any developmental work. He claimed that the administration had promised to provide a second instalment of financial assistance to women for running businesses and had also pledged to increase pensions, but these commitments have not been fulfilled. "Instead, power rates have been revised," he said, accusing the government of "deceiving" the masses.
Attack on CM's 'Green Gamachha' Remark
Tejashwi further launched a sharp attack on the Chief Minister over his "green gamachha" remark, which is widely perceived as an indirect political swipe at the RJD, insinuating that the party is trying to divide the country. "The statements indicate how much hatred he carries in his mind," Tejashwi alleged. He condemned the remark as divisive and harmful to social harmony.
Rohini Acharya's Reaction
Reacting sharply to the Chief Minister's comment, RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter, Rohini Acharya, said that such a prejudiced and hate-filled statement from a Chief Minister on a public platform is condemnable and unfortunate. She urged the government to focus on developmental issues rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric.
Political Context
The exchange between the ruling party and the opposition highlights the ongoing political tensions in Bihar. The "green gamachha" remark has been a point of contention, with the RJD accusing the BJP-led government of using coded language to target specific communities. Meanwhile, the government has denied any such intent, stating that the comment was taken out of context.
As the political slugfest continues, the state's economic management and welfare schemes remain key issues for debate. Tejashwi's allegations of an empty treasury add to the criticism faced by the Nitish Kumar-led government, which has been grappling with financial constraints amid rising expenditures.
