The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sharply criticized the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, labeling it a ‘weak alliance’ following a press conference where Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s photograph was notably absent from promotional materials. BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad highlighted this omission on Thursday, stating that while symbols of all other constituent parties were present, Gandhi’s image was conspicuously missing, questioning the unity and strength of the alliance.
During a press briefing in Patna, Prasad pointed out the contradiction of the alliance contesting 255 seats in a 243-seat assembly, even with two prominent leaders vying for the same seat in Gaura Bauram. “What kind of alliance is this?” he asked, emphasizing the internal conflicts and perceived weakness. He further warned Bihar’s voters that an RJD-led government would lead to a miserable existence, citing the conviction of Lalu Prasad Yadav in fodder scam cases and ongoing corruption allegations against Tejashwi Yadav.
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala echoed these sentiments, suggesting the RJD might view Rahul Gandhi as a ‘liability.’ He criticized the alliance for lacking a clear mission or vision, describing it as a coalition driven by ‘division and confusion.’ The absence of Gandhi’s picture, while Tejashwi Yadav’s was prominent, fueled speculation about the Congress party’s standing within the alliance, especially after past claims of being the ‘big brother.’ The upcoming Bihar elections are set to be a key contest between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, with Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj also vying for seats. Polling is scheduled for November 6 and 11, with results on November 14.