17 October, 2024;Patna: Bihar’s political landscape has once again heated up, as Union Minister Giriraj Singh’s ‘Hindu Swabhiman Yatra’ has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders. Former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav lashed out at Singh, accusing him of trying to create unrest in the state.
Speaking to reporters, Tejashwi Yadav expressed his dismay over Giriraj Singh’s remarks and actions, stating, “These people want to create unrest. A person who is sitting on a constitutional post should not be making such statements.” He went on to emphasize the peaceful legacy of Bihar, particularly highlighting the teachings of Lord Buddha, a symbol of non-violence and compassion, which resonate deeply with the state’s history.
“Bihar is the land of Buddha,” Yadav continued. “If somebody tries to create riots here, the people of Bihar won’t spare them.” His comments reflect the broader concerns of the opposition, who have accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders of attempting to stir communal tensions ahead of elections.
Yadav made it clear that his party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), would not remain silent in the face of any attempts to divide the people of Bihar along religious lines. “RJD won’t remain silent,” he warned, underlining that his party would actively work to maintain harmony in the state.
Giriraj Singh, a firebrand leader known for his strong Hindutva stance, has launched the ‘Hindu Swabhiman Yatra’ to rally support among the Hindu community, promoting the idea of Hindu pride and unity. However, critics argue that such initiatives are a calculated move to polarize voters in a state that has historically been known for its secular values.
The ongoing political confrontation between the RJD and BJP signals an intensifying battle as Bihar heads into a politically charged period. The state’s opposition parties, led by Tejashwi Yadav, are positioning themselves as defenders of Bihar’s secular ethos, while the BJP’s hardline leaders continue to push their message of Hindu unity.
As the debate over communalism and secularism plays out in Bihar, the situation remains tense, with both sides ramping up their rhetoric. The next few weeks are expected to see further political developments as leaders on both sides engage in a fierce contest for the state’s political soul.
