Opposition 'Gathbandhan' an Unruly Alliance of Netas Out on Bail: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has intensified his criticism of the opposition alliance, labeling it a "lathbandhan" (coalition of criminals) rather than a "gathbandhan" (alliance). Speaking to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers ahead of the Bihar Assembly polls, Modi asserted that the opposition leaders are primarily concerned with protecting their own interests and engaging in infighting. He highlighted that many leaders from both Delhi and Bihar within the alliance are currently out on bail, further emphasizing his point.

Modi's remarks come at a crucial time as political activity ramps up in Bihar ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc has declared Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav as its Chief Ministerial candidate. Modi's sharp rhetoric appears aimed at undermining the opposition's credibility and projecting the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as a more stable and reliable alternative.

The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to remind voters of the "misdeeds of Jungle Raj," a reference to the period when Bihar was governed by the RJD. He urged BJP workers to educate younger generations about that era, contrasting it with the progress made under the NDA's rule. Modi emphasized the importance of youth participation in the upcoming elections, framing them as an opportunity to write a new chapter in Bihar's history. He also stressed the need to create technology and startup hubs in Bihar so the youth don't have to migrate to other states to earn their living.

The I.N.D.I.A alliance, a coalition of multiple parties led by the Indian National Congress, was formed to counter the BJP-led NDA. However, the alliance has faced internal challenges, including disagreements over seat sharing and the projection of a Chief Ministerial candidate. Some reports suggest that RJD and Congress candidates may even compete against each other in certain constituencies, which has allowed NDA leaders to question the opposition's unity.

Amidst these political developments, concerns about the integrity of the electoral process have also surfaced. Allegations of electoral fraud during the 2024 general election have been made by opposition leaders, with claims of discrepancies in electoral rolls. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has refuted these allegations, but the controversy has led to protests and heightened political tensions.

As Bihar prepares for the Assembly elections, the political climate is charged with accusations and counter-accusations. PM Modi's recent statements underscore the BJP's strategy to portray the opposition as unstable and untrustworthy, while simultaneously highlighting the NDA's achievements and vision for the state's future. The outcome of the elections will depend on whether voters are swayed by these competing narratives.