Patna : Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh on Thursday stirred controversy by directly branding Lalu Prasad Yadav Ravan, declaring that the RJD chief symbolized Bihar’s “Ravan” during his rule.
While addressing a Dussehra gathering in Begusarai, Singh, who is also the local MP, declared, “Before 2005, ‘Ravan’ Lalu Prasad Yadav ruled Bihar.”
Drawing sharp comparisons between the Lalu and Nitish regimes, the Union Minister said, “Lalu once opened shepherd schools. Today, Nitish Kumar is opening medical and engineering colleges in every district. At present, our government is wiping the tears of people with low income.”
Singh also highlighted the Centre and state government’s welfare initiatives. He noted that more than 2.5 crore women have benefited from different schemes. In addition, he pointed out that homes are now being provided to people whose income is below the poverty threshold.
The BJP leader turned his attack towards Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, branding him an “urban Naxal.” He remarked, “People like Rahul Gandhi only use abusive language. Becoming an RSS volunteer requires seven lifetimes. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh always works for the nation during every crisis. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi continues with theatrics.”
Bihar Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary also criticized the RJD chief. He argued that the state had witnessed “Ravan Raj” during the Lalu-Rabri era. In contrast, under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, it now reflects “Ram Rajya.”
Speaking to media persons in Begusarai, Choudhary asked, “What was the situation 20 years ago? You are residents of Begusarai. Could you freely move on the streets back then? During the Lalu Prasad Yadav government, there was Ravan Raj. Today, under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, there is Ram Raj.”
As Vijayadashami celebrations took center stage, politics in Bihar intensified further. BJP leaders, including Giriraj Singh, branded Lalu Prasad Yadav and his son Tejashwi Yadav as “Ravan.” On the other hand, the RJD countered aggressively with sharp social media attacks against the NDA.
With Bihar heading into polls in October or November this year, the political rhetoric around Lalu Prasad Yadav being labeled as “Ravan” has set the stage for a heated electoral battle.
–IANS
