Lakhisarai, Bihar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during an election rally in Lakhisarai, Bihar, accusing him of disrespecting the Chhath Puja festival and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah's remarks came in response to Gandhi's alleged comments calling the Chhath Puja celebrations a "drama".

Addressing a large gathering, Shah asserted that Gandhi's words demonstrated a lack of understanding of the deep faith associated with Chhath Puja, a festival of immense spiritual significance for millions across the country, particularly in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. He stated that Rahul Gandhi not only insulted Prime Minister Modi, but also disrespected "Chhathi Maiya".

"Yesterday, Rahul Baba came and used some words to insult PM Modi... But by insulting PM Modi, he also insulted Chhathi Maiya. He said that those who celebrate Chhath Puja do drama," Shah declared. "Rahul Baba, you will not understand the importance and faith of Chhathi Maiya. Neither will your mother".

Shah didn't hold back, suggesting the repercussions of Gandhi's alleged remarks would extend far beyond the immediate political arena. "You use abusive language against PM Modi. Just look at history. The number of times Congress leaders have used abusive language against Modi ji. Congress has been wiped out," Shah stated. He further added, "When the boxes are opened on 14 November, the (Grand) Alliance will be wiped out". According to a report, Shah also said that Rahul Gandhi insulted Chhath Maiya, her devotees, Bihar, and Purvanchal, and he will face "adverse consequences” of this in the upcoming state elections.

Shah also reminded the public of the state's condition before 2005. He said that before 2005, Bihar was under "Jungle Raj," with only kidnapping and ransom thriving. He credited Nitish Kumar for ending the "Jungle Raj" and initiating development in Bihar.

Shah urged voters to support the NDA, emphasizing that their vote was not just for an MLA or minister, but for the continued development of Bihar under the leadership of Nitish Kumar and Narendra Modi. He appealed to voters to help stop "Jungle Raj".

In addition to his criticism of Rahul Gandhi, Shah announced plans for the construction of a grand temple dedicated to Maa Sita in Sitamarhi, with arrangements for a direct train from Sitamarhi to Ayodhya.