‘Bihar Today Needs Result, Respect & Rise, Not Hollow Rhetoric’

In a powerful X post on November 11, RJD leader and INDIA bloc’s chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav celebrated the “record voting” in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, interpreting it as a resounding rejection of the NDA’s “hollow promises” and a demand for tangible results.

“All that the people have got from the NDA government is assurances, slogans, rhetoric, and empty promises. People of Bihar can no longer stand these, not even for a second,” Yadav declared, accusing the ruling alliance of misleading voters with “dirty tricks.”

He praised the INDIA bloc’s inclusive agenda, stating, “Our policies are inclusive and cater to every class, caste, religion, and community. The people have annulled the dirty tricks of the NDA meant to mislead them.” Yadav emphasized shared aspirations, saying, “My dream is the same as yours. Your pain is the same as mine. Our goals are the same, which no outsider to Bihar can truly understand.”

Criticizing two decades of NDA rule, Yadav highlighted failures in key sectors: “It’s already too late. In the last 20 years, we have failed to achieve real development. The government could not provide jobs for the youth, reduce crimes, ensure quality education, or build good hospitals for effective healthcare. Farmers remain stricken by floods, traders are facing losses, and people are still in the grip of inflation.”

As Bihar entered the second phase of voting, with 3.7 crore voters deciding the fate of 1,302 candidates across 122 constituencies, Yadav’s message resonated amid high turnout—over 67% by 5 pm on November 11. His emotional appeal underscored the INDIA bloc’s focus on development, contrasting with the NDA’s perceived shortcomings.

This statement positions Yadav as a leader attuned to Bihari concerns, potentially galvanizing support in a closely contested election. Experts note that high voter participation signals voter frustration with governance, favoring opposition narratives.

Yadav’s critique echoes broader national sentiments, where promises of development have often fallen short. As results approach, his words may influence undecided voters, emphasizing accountability over rhetoric.

In the context of Bihar’s political landscape, Yadav’s remarks highlight the INDIA bloc’s strategy to appeal to diverse voter groups, promising equitable growth. The high turnout in both phases, despite security measures, indicates voter enthusiasm and a desire for change.

Political analysts suggest that Yadav’s focus on inclusive policies could resonate in rural and urban areas alike, addressing caste, class, and economic divides. His emotional connection, portraying shared pain and dreams, aims to build trust and mobilize support.

Overall, Yadav’s post serves as a rallying cry for the INDIA bloc, framing the elections as a choice between empty promises and real action.

The first state elections in Bihar were held in 1952. Before the partition of Bihar, the total strength of membership in the assembly was 331, including one nominated member. On 22 March 1912, both Bihar and Orissa were separated from the Bengal Presidency and administered as the Bihar and Orissa Province. On 1 April 1936, Bihar and Orissa became separate provinces. After the partition, the seats were reduced to 243 members. Shri Krishna Singh became the first leader of the House and the first chief minister, Anugrah Narayan Singh was elected as the first deputy leader of the house and the first deputy chief minister.