PM Modi Slams RJD-Congress Over Ambedkar Controversy, Showcases Development Vision in Siwan

In a high-octane rally held in Jasoli, Siwan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful speech that blended emotional appeal with aggressive political criticism and a grand showcase of development projects. With the Bihar assembly elections on the horizon, the Prime Minister's address appeared aimed at reshaping public sentiment while cornering the opposition, especially the RJD and Congress.

(Left to right) Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a rally in Siwan and a screenshot of the purported video showing a portrait of BR Ambedkar during Lalu Prasad Yadav's birthday celebration.(PTI and X/Pratyush Kanth) | Hindustan Times

Ambedkar's Legacy and the ‘Feet’ Controversy

The rally’s emotional peak came when PM Modi invoked Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Referring to a widely circulated video where Ambedkar’s portrait was reportedly placed near the feet of RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav during a birthday celebration, Modi accused the RJD and Congress of demeaning the legacy of the Constitution’s architect.

With visible passion, the Prime Minister declared, “They keep Babasaheb at their feet, but I keep him in my heart.” He alleged that such acts are not accidental but deliberate, rooted in an elitist mindset that seeks to elevate political families above national icons. He challenged the opposition to apologise to Dalits, Mahadalits, and backward classes for the insult but expressed doubt they ever would. According to him, the opposition's silence reflects a deep-seated disregard for the very communities they claim to represent.

Development Drive: Trains, Roads, and Modern Infrastructure

While emotional and political appeals dominated the speech, PM Modi also used the occasion to underline his government’s focus on infrastructure and growth. The rally coincided with the launch of projects worth over ₹9,500 crore, covering transport, energy, urban development, and sanitation.

One of the key highlights was the flagging off of the Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express, the 70th such train in the country, set to commence operations on June 22. Modi also announced the export of diesel locomotives manufactured in Bihar’s Saran district to countries like Guinea and South Africa, showcasing India’s growing manufacturing prowess under the “Make in India” initiative.

In the realm of public services, Modi listed the electrification of over 1.5 crore homes and construction of 55,000 km of rural roads across Bihar in the last decade. Siwan alone saw the construction of over one lakh homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), most of which are registered in the name of women, promoting their economic and social empowerment.

Additionally, projects under the Namami Gange mission and the launch of advanced sewage treatment plants further strengthened Modi’s development narrative, signaling a vision not only of infrastructure growth but of environmental responsibility.

Political Punches and 'Jungle Raj' Jibe

Beyond policy and progress, PM Modi’s speech was peppered with sharp political barbs. He lashed out at the RJD and Congress for indulging in what he called “parivar ka saath, parivar ka vikas”—dynastic politics focused solely on family gain. He accused them of fostering an environment of lawlessness and economic stagnation in Bihar during their rule, coining it as "jungle raj."

According to Modi, the BJP-led NDA government replaced this chaos with development, law, and opportunity. He framed the NDA as the true representative of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” contrasting it with the opposition’s alleged nepotism and corruption.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Reinforcement

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who shared the stage with PM Modi, echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments and highlighted additional achievements under the NDA administration. He pointed to the construction of medical colleges, rollout of caste-based surveys, distribution of Ayushman Bharat health cards, and reservation for women in local governance as proof of inclusive governance.

He mocked the opposition for making baseless allegations and praised the central government for its consistent support and investment in Bihar’s progress.

Opposition Strikes Back

The rally did not go unanswered. RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav responded with sarcasm, releasing a digitally edited video urging people to carry umbrellas in anticipation of the “rain of lies” from the Prime Minister. His son and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also dismissed the rally as a hollow spectacle, claiming that Modi and Nitish lacked grassroots popularity and had failed to generate real employment or address social inequality.

Conclusion: Development vs Dynasty Politics

Prime Minister Modi’s Siwan rally showcased a sharp juxtaposition between symbolism and substance. By invoking Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy, he tapped into an emotional and ideological core, particularly among Dalits and backward communities. Simultaneously, by presenting hard data and launching high-visibility projects, he aimed to convince voters that the NDA government is a harbinger of real change.

In contrast, the opposition sought to frame the BJP’s narrative as theatrical and ungrounded, insisting that real empowerment and economic relief remain elusive for Bihar’s people.

As Bihar moves closer to assembly elections, the Siwan rally could emerge as a turning point—either solidifying BJP’s claim to performance-based politics or giving the opposition fresh ammunition to challenge it. The emotional, economic, and political stakes are high, and the people of Bihar will ultimately decide which narrative they believe.

(Sources: NDTV, Hindustan Times, OpIndia)