Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Nov 10: Senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday expressed confidence that the BJP-led NDA is poised for a “decisive, effective and historic victory” in Bihar, ahead of the second phase of polling scheduled for Tuesday.
Addressing reporters at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Prasad claimed that the Opposition’s recent statements reflect an acceptance of defeat. “Tejashwi Yadav held a press conference after the campaign period ended. Such statements during the silence period indicate that he has already conceded defeat,” he said.
Responding to Tejashwi Yadav’s criticism that industries are being set up only in BJP-ruled states, Prasad said the RJD leader “does not do his homework,” citing the establishment of 17 ethanol plants, textile parks, and Bihar emerging as a hub for the biscuit industry. He added that Memorandums of Understanding worth Rs 1.18 lac crore have been signed and praised the state for being “free from the atmosphere of terror.”
Prasad attributed the NDA’s electoral success over the past two decades to a strong “trust factor” among the people. He highlighted the massive turnout during roadshows led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as evidence of public support and the Prime Minister’s popularity.
Framing the election as a battle between “jungle raj and good governance,” Prasad accused Tejashwi Yadav of continuing his father Lalu Prasad Yadav’s legacy of corruption and lawlessness. “In the jungle raj era, ransom was decided at the CM’s residence,” he alleged.
Prasad also took a swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, calling him a “political tourist” who goes on safaris rather than engaging in serious campaigning.
Addressing concerns about police deployment, Prasad clarified, “Forces are deployed by the Election Commission, not by political parties,” and urged patience regarding voter turnout figures, adding, “Let’s wait for the Election Commission’s data; everything will be clear soon.”
The second phase of voting in Bihar’s elections is set to take place on Tuesday, with the NDA projecting strong prospects amid high-stakes campaigning by all parties.