Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp critique of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) during a virtual address to the women of Bihar, accusing the Lalu Prasad-led party of causing immense suffering for women during its rule.
Speaking from Delhi at the launch of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a scheme under which 75 lakh women in Bihar each received Rs 10,000 to support livelihood activities, Modi urged women to ensure that the RJD and its allies never return to power in the state.
In his address, Modi highlighted the challenges women faced under RJD governance, stating, “Women of Bihar suffered a lot under the RJD rule... There were no roads, law and order was pathetic... but now women feel safe and secure under the Nitish Kumar government as the rule of law prevails. Hence, they must ensure that RJD and its allies never return to power.”
He further elaborated on the conditions during RJD’s tenure, saying, “When the RJD was in power in Bihar, women suffered immensely due to the chaos and corruption... roads were broken and dilapidated, there was no trace of any bridge or culvert. Floods caused so much trouble... pregnant women could not reach hospitals on time, and did not get timely treatment. Our government worked day and night to bring you out of these conditions.”
Modi praised the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for its focus on women’s empowerment, asserting that Bihar would soon lead the country in producing the highest number of ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women who achieve financial independence through entrepreneurial ventures. He announced that the 75 lakh beneficiaries of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana would receive an additional Rs 2 lakh each, along with training to enhance their entrepreneurial skills, further strengthening their economic prospects.
The Prime Minister lauded the scheme as a significant step by the Nitish Kumar government, stating, “When any sister or daughter gets a job or becomes self-employed, her dreams gain new wings, and her respect in society increases even more.” He also highlighted other central government initiatives that have uplifted Bihar’s residents, including the Ujjwala Yojana, free ration distribution to 8.5 crore people, and the Ayushman Bharat healthcare scheme, which have improved access to essential services and enhanced quality of life.
The launch of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana holds particular importance as Bihar approaches its assembly elections, scheduled for later in 2025. With women forming a substantial portion of the state’s electorate, the scheme is seen as a strategic move to bolster support for the NDA government. Modi’s address, combining sharp political rhetoric against the RJD with promises of continued empowerment, underscores the NDA’s focus on women’s welfare as a key electoral plank in the lead-up to the polls.
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