Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a rally in Siwan, Bihar on June 20, 2025, launched a sharp attack on Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, accusing him and his party of disrespecting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. Modi contrasted this alleged disrespect with his own "heartfelt" reverence for Babasaheb Ambedkar. This visit marks Modi's fourth to Bihar this year, ahead of the Bihar assembly elections which are expected to be held later this year.
The Prime Minister's remarks were prompted by a recent controversy surrounding Lalu Prasad Yadav. A video circulating online purportedly showed a party worker placing a portrait of Dr. Ambedkar near Lalu's feet during a birthday celebration. This act triggered strong reactions, with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) writing to Bihar's Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) to address the matter. The BJP and its allies have seized on this incident to criticize Lalu Prasad and the RJD. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also condemned Lalu Prasad, stating that the nation would not forgive him for insulting Ambedkar. He said that Lalu Prasad's actions revealed his true intentions and exposed his purported advocacy for Dalits and backward classes as a mere facade.
Modi emphasized that the people of Bihar would not forgive the RJD for the perceived insult, skillfully using the controversy to galvanize support for the BJP and its allies. He urged voters to reject the "jungle raj," a term often used to describe the RJD's governance in Bihar, and highlighted the development work undertaken by the current Nitish Kumar-led government, supported by the BJP. Modi asserted that the Nitish government has been instrumental in bringing investments into Bihar, while alleging that the Congress and the RJD are against such progress. He reiterated his commitment to "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas" (collective effort for inclusive growth), underscoring his government's dedication to the welfare of all sections of society.
In response to PM Modi's visit and accusations, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav posed 12 questions to the Prime Minister, challenging him to address them during his speech. These questions focused on issues such as poverty, unemployment, and the state of Bihar's development under the "double engine government" (a government of the same coalition ruling at the state and centre). Yadav also questioned the Prime Minister on promises made during previous elections and alleged inconsistencies in the implementation of development schemes. He further inquired whether PM Modi would acknowledge the contributions of Lalu Prasad Yadav to the development of the Saran division, including the establishment of JP University and railway factories.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Siwan is strategically important. Siwan is considered a stronghold of the RJD. During the RJD regime, the area was heavily influenced by Mohammad Shahabuddin, whose family maintains close ties with Lalu Prasad.
Modi's address in Siwan is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the NDA's position in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The BJP aims to improve its performance in regions where the opposition has historically held an advantage. The party is also focusing on highlighting the achievements of the NDA government in Bihar and contrasting it with the alleged misrule of previous administrations.
