PM Modi Accuses Congress-RJD Alliance of ‘Loot Politics,’ Sparks Debate Over Chhath Remarks Ahead of Bihar Polls

Modi Targets Mahagathbandhan Ahead of Bihar Elections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a strong offensive against the opposition alliance of the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), alleging internal discord and accusing them of prioritizing power over public welfare. Addressing a large rally in Muzaffarpur just days before Bihar goes to the polls, Modi said the two parties were as incompatible as “water and oil,” claiming their alliance was driven solely by “the desire to loot Bihar.”

The prime minister asserted that he had received reports of “infighting” between Congress and RJD functionaries across the state. “Their rallies are just a show,” he said, expressing confidence that Bihar’s electorate would once again choose the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to ensure continuity in development and stability.

‘Five Marks of Misrule’

Drawing a sharp contrast between the NDA’s governance and what he described as the RJD-Congress legacy of disorder, Modi listed what he called the “five signs of misrule” — katta (illegal firearms), kroorta (cruelty), katuta (social bitterness), kushasan (misgovernance), and corruption.

He recalled the period of RJD rule in the 1990s and early 2000s, often labeled as “jungle raj” by political observers, claiming that over 35,000 kidnappings occurred during that time. “Where there is katta, law breaks down,” Modi declared, urging voters not to return to what he described as an era of fear and instability.

NDA’s Pitch: Development and Cultural Pride

Reiterating his government’s focus on infrastructure, investment, and job creation, Modi said the NDA aimed to “take Bihar’s culture to the world.” He highlighted ongoing central initiatives in the state, including projects in connectivity, rural development, and education, as examples of what he called “real progress over empty promises.”

“The RJD and Congress ruled Bihar for decades but only delivered betrayal,” he said, positioning his administration as a champion of both economic growth and cultural preservation.

Chhath Controversy: PM Accuses Opposition of ‘Insulting Faith’

Turning to a recent political controversy, Modi condemned comments from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav, who had described his references to Chhath Puja as “drama.” The Hindu festival, celebrated with deep devotion across Bihar and eastern India, honors the Sun God and goddess Chhathi Maiya.

“Can anyone insult Chhathi Maiya just for votes? Will Bihar’s mothers forgive this?” Modi asked, as the crowd responded with a resounding “No.” He accused the opposition of treating religious faith as a political tool and vowed that “Bihar will never forgive those who mock its traditions.”

Modi also revealed that the Centre is pursuing UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition for Chhath, describing the move as a step toward global acknowledgment of Bihar’s cultural legacy.

Political Stakes in Bihar

Bihar’s assembly elections, expected to be fiercely contested, are viewed as a critical test for both the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). The RJD, led by Tejashwi Yadav, is contesting in partnership with the Congress and several smaller parties, while the BJP-led NDA seeks to retain power on a platform of economic growth and cultural nationalism.

Analysts say the Chhath debate has quickly become a flashpoint in the campaign, reflecting how faith and identity remain central to Bihar’s political discourse. Modi’s rally, which blended cultural symbolism with political attack, signals the ruling party’s attempt to consolidate its base in the state’s heartland.