‘Lantern Raj’ Pushed Entire Bihar Into Darkness: PM Modi In Gaya Ji Attacks RJD, Congress; Vows To Bring Anti-Graft Law

PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Gaya on Friday, launched a sharp attack on the Opposition, accusing the Rashtriya Janata Dal and Congress of pushing Bihar into years of stagnation and corruption.

Taking a swipe at the RJD, the Prime Minister described its years in power as an “era of darkness,” claiming that crime and poverty forced generations to migrate.

“Remember the condition during the ‘lantern’ rule. Regions like Gaya were under red terror, education and jobs were scarce, and the youth had no choice but to leave the state,” Modi said, accusing the RJD of treating Biharis only as a vote bank.

Congress “Disrespected” Bihar, Says PM

Modi also accused the Congress of being dismissive towards the state. “A Congress chief minister once said he would not let people from Bihar enter his state. Despite this insult, RJD chose to remain silent,” he said.

The Prime Minister claimed the NDA is working to restore respect and opportunities for Bihar’s youth. “We are determined to ensure jobs and dignity so that families are not broken by migration,” he said.

Push For Development & Clean Politics

Highlighting his government’s work, Modi said Bihar’s rapid development remains a priority for the Centre. “Old problems are being resolved, and new pathways for growth are being created,” he noted.

He also defended the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill, which proposes disqualifying prime ministers, chief ministers and ministers if they are jailed for 30 consecutive days. “If a government employee loses their job after 50 hours in jail, why should powerful leaders enjoy office from prison? Corruption must have no shelter,” Modi argued, referring indirectly to jailed AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal.

Dig At Opposition Leaders Facing Cases

Without naming them, Modi mentioned several Opposition leaders facing court cases or on bail, including RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, who faces probes in the land-for-jobs and IRCTC hotel scam cases. “Those who fear the law are now opposing this bill because they know what they have done,” he alleged.

Bihar will head to the assembly polls later this year, likely between October & November, though the Election Commission is yet to announce the dates.