Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP-led NDA will form the next government in Bihar, thus giving a reason to celebrate ‘two’ Diwalis.
While addressing his first election rally in Bihar’s Banka district after the election schedule was announced last month, Modi said, “It is certain that the BJP-led NDA is going to form the next government and there will be double celebration of Diwali, one for the poll outcome and the other for the festival of lights.”
Modi urged the people to vote for development. He said, “You have faced ahankarvad (arrogance), samantvad (feudalism), vanshvad (dynastic politics). You have tried everything, now vote for vikasvad (development) for once to change the face of Bihar.”
Modi said he and his party, the BJP, were committed to the development of Bihar. He added, “Make your decision once and I assure you I will be with you every step of the way towards the development of Bihar.”
The PM announced that his agenda was to create jobs for the youth, making policies for the benefit of farmers, and women contributing to nation-building.
Modi also said that the funds allocated to Bihar by his government was the “right” of the state. He said that “Bihar must vote for development”, which can come only with investment. “The solution to all problems lies in development. It will set us free from all problems.”
The prime minister said, “Development needs investment. The government in Delhi has opened its coffers for Bihar. This is not a favour; it is Bihar’s right, which was not given to it so far.”
Modi recently announced a package worth Rs.1,65,000 crore for Bihar.
He also took a dig at the Nitish Kumar government, saying it was not trustworthy.
Modi added, “Some people question if the Rs.1,65,000 crore that has been promised will come to Bihar or not… tell me, the present day government should be given even a rupee? Will you get anything? They are so arrogant, maybe we give them money and they return it.”
The election to the 243-member Bihar assembly will take place in five phases between 12 October and 5 November. The counting of votes is slated for 8 November.