metro india news  I new delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Purnea on Monday, strongly criticized the Congress for a controversial social media post that allegedly linked Bihar with 'bidis', calling it a "direct insult" to the people of the state. He asserted that Biharis will deliver a strong response to the opposition INDIA bloc in the upcoming assembly elections.

The controversy stems from a now-deleted post by the Kerala unit of the Congress, which criticized the central government's GST policy on tobacco products. The post made a reference connecting the word “Bihar” with “bidis”, sparking backlash across political lines.

Taking aim at the Congress during his speech, Modi said, “Congress leaders mock Bihar by saying both ‘bidis’ and Bihar start with B. This is an insult to every Bihari. The people of this state will respond strongly at the ballot box.”

He also lashed out at the RJD-Congress alliance, accusing them of years of misgovernance in Bihar. “The state suffered under their rule. They cannot tolerate the progress Bihar has made under the NDA. Mothers and sisters in particular will lead the charge in giving a fitting reply during the elections,” he said.

Modi accused opposition parties of supporting infiltrators and claimed that the NDA would take firm action to remove them. “The opposition only looks after their families, not the people,” he alleged, reiterating his government’s commitment to "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas".

Highlighting developmental initiatives, the Prime Minister announced the formation of the National Makhana Board to support local farmers. He also noted the achievements in housing under his government, stating, “Four crore pucca houses have already been given to the poor, and three crore more are in the pipeline.” Modi concluded by reaffirming Bihar’s vital role in India's growth and security, positioning the state as a key player in the country’s progress under the NDA.