New Delhi: RJD leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday launched a sharp critique of the NDA government in Bihar, declaring that the state’s electorate is “in the mood for change” and pledging a series of welfare measures if the Mahagathbandhan is voted to power.
Addressing a press conference, Yadav accused the Nitish Kumar-led administration of corruption, governance failure, and neglecting industrial and employment development. “People are tired of this khatara (dilapidated) government. Corruption and crime have reached their peak, and there is neither hearing nor action,” he said.
Yadav also targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah, alleging that the Centre has sidelined Bihar in favour of Gujarat. “Amit Shah said factories and industries can’t come to Bihar. Prime Minister Modi sets up factories, industries in Gujarat, and for Bihar, all they can offer is thumbs,” he remarked.
He likened NDA’s prolonged rule to an overused field: “If you sow seeds in the same field for 20 years, it becomes infertile. Bihar has given 20 years to NDA; now the people should give us 20 months to bring real change.”
Outlining his party’s welfare agenda, Yadav promised pensions for three-tier Panchayat and Gram Kachahri representatives, Rs 50 lakh insurance cover for village court members, and increased margins for workers in the public distribution system.
He also announced financial aid of up to Rs 5 lakh for local artisans, including carpenters, barbers, and potters, to help them purchase toolkits and establish independent livelihoods.
Reiterating his commitment to regularising contractual workers, Yadav recalled achievements during his 17-month tenure as Deputy CM, claiming that progress stalled only after Nitish Kumar’s political realignment.
Yadav confirmed ongoing discussions with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and said the Mahagathbandhan’s joint manifesto will be released soon. “We will sit together and make our vision for the Bihar public very shortly,” he said.
Bihar will vote in two phases on November 6 and 11, with results to be declared on November 14.
(Inputs from IANS)