Key Takeaways
- Amit Shah and Priyanka Gandhi trade accusations over ‘Jungle Raj’ and ‘double engine’ government
- Bihar elections scheduled for November 6 and 11 with results on November 14
- Both leaders question each other’s commitment to Bihar’s development
A fierce political battle has erupted in Bihar as the state prepares for assembly elections, with top leaders from rival alliances exchanging sharp criticisms. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra engaged in a war of words over governance models and leadership.
Shah’s ‘Jungle Raj’ Attack
Addressing an election rally virtually on Saturday, Amit Shah targeted the opposition Mahagathbandhan, reviving the ‘Jungle Raj’ criticism. He framed the election as crucial for Bihar’s future direction.
“This election is not to elect the MLAs, this will decide the future of Bihar. Who will get the responsibility for Bihar? The one who imposed Jungle Raj in Bihar or the Modi-Nitish duo who worked for the development of Bihar,” Shah stated.
Priyanka’s ‘Single Engine’ Counter
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hit back at the NDA for not announcing its chief ministerial face, arguing that the government is being run from the Centre rather than having a genuine ‘double engine’ setup.
“My understanding is that the people of Bihar are not heard at all. They are unheard in the BJP, Nitish ji is also not heard. This government is being run from the Centre… So this double engine is actually a single engine. There is no double engine,” she told media.
She further questioned the NDA’s leadership selection process, noting: “You have seen it in other states also. Suddenly, a Chief Minister comes of whom no one has ever heard. Where did he come from? If there is a double engine, then first listen to the people of the state.”
Election Schedule
The Bihar assembly elections will be conducted in two phases on November 6 and November 11. Vote counting and result declaration are scheduled for November 14, setting the stage for intense political competition in the state.
