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Bihar News Updated Jun 20, 2025

PM Modi's 'lalten-panja' jab at RJD-Cong, says Bihar's role vital in Viksit Bharat goal

PM Modi launched a scathing attack on the RJD-Congress alliance, blaming them for Bihar's historical struggles. He credited Nitish Kumar's NDA government for reviving the state's development trajectory. The Prime Minister emphasized Bihar's crucial role in India's ambition to become the world's third superpower. Modi urged voters to reject forces that previously brought 'jungle raj' to the state.

Patna, June 20

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday stated that Bihar will play a pivotal role in achieving the goal of 'Viksit Bharat' and urged the public to remain alert and vigilant against the ‘jungle raj’ forces, which are once again lurking for an opportunity to seize power in the state.

PM Modi, addressing a large public gathering in Siwan, launched a wide array of development projects and slammed the RJD-Congress alliance for keeping the state backward for years.

“Lalten and Panja forced the residents of the state to leave their homeland and migrate outside. They brought the state to such a condition that poverty and exodus became an identity of Bihar,” PM Modi said, taking a direct swipe at Lalu Yadav’s RJD and the Congress party.

It's under the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government that the state was brought back on the development track, he added.

PM Modi further said that today’s youth have only heard stories about the plight of Bihar 20 years ago, but have no real idea of the terrible condition that the Jungle Raj created in the state.

“People of Bihar have never compromised with their self-respect and have shown their mettle with hard work and determination. But, it's the alliance of 'lalten (lantern)' and 'panja (hand)' that hurt the self-respect of Bihar greatly,” PM Modi told the gathering.

Prime Minister further said that Bihar will be a significant contributor to shaping India’s rise as a third superpower in the world. He also shared feedback from his recent foreign visits.

“You all know that I returned from abroad only yesterday. During this visit, I talked to the leaders of major prosperous countries of the world. All the leaders are very impressed by the rapid progress of India. They see India becoming the third-largest economic superpower in the world. And Bihar is definitely going to have a big role in this. Bihar will prosper and will also play a big role in the prosperity of the country,” PM Modi told the crowd, eliciting loud applause.

He also urged the public to stay wary of those who brought jungle raj to the state, stating that there were fresh attempts by them to reclaim the reprehensible legacy.

He exhorted the people to think about the future of their children and choose wisely when the state goes to the polls.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Rahul K.

PM Modi is absolutely right about Bihar's potential! The state has suffered for too long under corrupt regimes. With proper governance, Bihar can become an economic powerhouse. The youth deserve better opportunities in their own state rather than migrating. 🇮🇳

Priya M.

While development is important, I wish politicians would focus more on actual work than name-calling. "Lalten-panja" jabs may get applause, but what Bihar needs are more schools, hospitals and industries. Actions speak louder than words!

Amit S.

As someone who left Bihar during the bad old days, I can confirm the horror stories are real. But things are changing now - roads are better, electricity is stable. Still a long way to go, but at least we're moving forward. Jai Bihar! Jai Hind!

Sunita R.

The PM's vision for Bihar is inspiring, but I hope it includes women's empowerment too. Bihar's women have suffered the most during jungle raj - no safety, no jobs. Development must be inclusive for all sections of society.

Vikram J.

Funny how politicians blame each other but never take responsibility. Yes, RJD-Congress did damage, but has NDA really transformed Bihar? Patna looks better, but villages still lack basic facilities. We need less politics, more development work on ground.

Neha T.

Bihar's youth are its biggest asset 💪 With digital India and startup culture, our state can leapfrog into development. But we need skill centers and local job creation. Hope Viksit Bharat means Bihari talent won't have to migrate to other states for opportunities.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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