Bihar's political landscape is witnessing heightened activity as parties gear up for the upcoming assembly elections in October-November. Women voters, who have consistently outnumbered men in previous elections, are once again a key focus for all political contenders. The ruling NDA and the opposition RJD-Congress alliance are employing various strategies, from welfare schemes to emotional appeals, to woo this crucial demographic.

Recently, a controversy erupted after a video circulated allegedly showing a man hurling abuses at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother during a Congress rally. This incident has ignited a political firestorm, with the NDA launching a coordinated offensive against the RJD and Congress, framing it as an insult to all mothers and women in Bihar.

Prime Minister Modi himself addressed the issue, expressing deep pain and asserting that such disrespect towards his mother, who had no involvement in politics, would not be tolerated by the people of Bihar. He made an emotional appeal to the women of Bihar, urging them to hold the RJD-Congress combine accountable.

In response to the alleged abuse, the NDA called for a five-hour Bihar bandh. Women workers from NDA constituent parties led protests across the state, denouncing the incident and demanding accountability from the opposition. The bandh saw mixed reactions, with some businesses closing in support while others remained open.

The RJD, however, has dismissed the NDA's outrage as political opportunism. RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav questioned the conduct of NDA supporters during the bandh, accusing them of harassing women, students, and other vulnerable groups. Tejashwi Yadav, another prominent RJD leader, has accused PM Modi of political theatre, referencing previous statements made by the Prime Minister.

Beyond the immediate controversy, both the NDA and the RJD-Congress alliance are offering a slew of promises and schemes aimed at women voters. The Nitish Kumar government has launched the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, providing financial assistance to women for employment. The RJD has countered with promises of monthly allowances, subsidized LPG cylinders, and education-linked benefits for girls.

Women's votes have been a deciding factor in Bihar elections. In the 2020 elections, women's voter turnout was 60%, compared to 54% for men. Nitish Kumar's earlier policies, such as reservations in panchayats, bicycles for schoolgirls, and alcohol prohibition, have cultivated a loyal base of women voters. Parties recognize that women voters often cut across traditional caste lines, making them a critical swing vote. As the election approaches, the battle to win over Bihar's women voters is expected to intensify further.