PM Modi Slams RJD Over ‘Lantern Raj’; Launches Rs 12,992 Crore Development Projects In Bihar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) during a massive rally at Magadh University Campus in Bodh Gaya on Friday.

He accused the party of plunging Bihar into darkness and neglect during what he called the ‘Lantern Raj’, a reference to the tenure of Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi.

“You remember, during the Lantern Raj, this area was gripped by red terror. It was difficult to travel after evening due to the Maoists. Cities like Gaya remained in darkness. Thousands of villages lacked electricity poles. There was no education or employment, forcing generations to migrate,” PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister hailed the NDA government’s recent anti-corruption law that mandates bail within 30 days for arrested officials, including the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and Ministers.

Prime Minister Modi indirectly criticised former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for signing government orders from jail.

“In all these years, not a single stain of corruption has been put on our government. Meanwhile, the Congress, in power for decades after independence, and the RJD have long records of corruption,” he stated.

He accused opposition parties of treating Bihar merely as a vote bank, ignoring the needs and dignity of the poor, and focusing solely on power.

Launch of Rs 12,992 Crore Development Projects

PM Modi announced the inauguration and foundation-laying of projects worth Rs 12,992 crore in sectors including energy, health, and urban development. He emphasised the importance of these projects in boosting Bihar’s industries and creating jobs.

Highlighting the Pradhan Mantri Vikasit Bharat Rojgar Yojana, launched recently, PM Modi said, “When youth get their first private sector job, the government will provide Rs 15,000. Private companies hiring will also receive incentives. Bihar’s youth will greatly benefit.”

The Prime Minister acknowledged Gaya’s spiritual importance as the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. He applauded the Bihar government’s decision to rename the city ‘Gaya Ji’, noting the state government’s commitment to rapid development.

Prime Minister Modi praised Bihar’s historical role in safeguarding India and reaffirmed India’s strengthened defence posture.

“Operation Sindoor has set a new line in India’s defence policy. Terrorists will find no haven,” he asserted.

Landing at Gaya Ji airport, PM Modi received a warm welcome, with crowds gathering along the route and showering flowers during a brief roadshow before the rally.

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