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PM Modi Condemns Congress-RJD Over 'Bidi-Bihar' Controversy Ahead of Bihar Elections

In a recent rally in Purnea, Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharply criticized the Congress and RJD-led Mahagathbandhan over a controversial social media post by the Kerala unit of the Congress. The post, which has since been deleted, linked Bihar to "bidis" (traditional Indian cigarettes) in a satirical comment on the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) rationalization. Modiji termed the post a "sheer insult" to the state and its people, accusing the opposition of consistently undermining Bihar's progress.


Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony of various development projects, in Purnea, Bihar. (PMO via PTI Photo)(PMO) | Hindustan Times
Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony of various development projects, in Purnea, Bihar. (PMO via PTI Photo)(PMO) | Hindustan Times

The 'Bidi-Bihar' Row

The controversy erupted when the Kerala Congress's social media team posted a message that read: "Bidis and Bihar start from B. Cannot be considered a sin anymore." The post was intended as a satirical comment on the GST rationalization of tobacco products. However, it was widely perceived as an offensive comparison between the people of Bihar and bidis, leading to widespread condemnation.


PM Modi's Response

Addressing a gathering in Purnea, Modiji expressed outrage over the post, stating, "Whenever Bihar moves forward, these people get busy insulting Bihar." He accused the Congress and RJD of consistently undermining Bihar's progress and tarnishing its reputation through scams and corruption during their tenure. "These people have caused a lot of damage to Bihar's reputation through scams and corruption," he remarked.


Allegations of Infiltration

In addition to criticizing the opposition for the 'bidi-Bihar' remark, Modiji also addressed concerns over infiltration. He alleged that the Congress and RJD have been shielding infiltrators for vote bank politics, compromising Bihar's security and resources. Modiji emphasized his government's commitment to curbing illegal entry into the country, vowing to take stringent measures to reinforce national security.


Internal Repercussions within Congress

The controversy led to internal repercussions within the Congress party. VT Balram, the Kerala unit's social media head, resigned following the backlash over the post. The Congress party condemned the post and announced plans to reconstitute its Kerala social media team.


The MGMM Outlook

The recent 'Bidi-Bihar' controversy has once again highlighted the persistent attempts by the Congress and RJD to undermine Bihar’s progress. A social media post by the Kerala Congress, linking Bihar to bidis in a satirical remark on GST rationalization, sparked widespread outrage for its offensive nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Purnea, called the post a “sheer insult” to the state and its people, emphasizing that Bihar’s growth and development have often been targeted by opposition parties through derogatory comments, scams, and corruption. Modi’s strong condemnation underscored his commitment to protecting Bihar’s dignity and ensuring that the state is not reduced to political mockery by those with a history of misgovernance.


Beyond the immediate controversy, Modiji also highlighted broader concerns of security and governance, alleging that Congress and RJD have shielded infiltrators for political gain, compromising Bihar’s safety and resources. He reiterated his government’s resolve to curb illegal entry and reinforce national security. The incident also exposed internal cracks within the Congress, with the resignation of VT Balram, head of the Kerala social media team, signaling accountability and the party’s acknowledgment of the misstep. This episode has become a significant point of discussion in the political landscape of Bihar, reflecting the ongoing struggle between development-focused governance and opposition narratives.



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