Tejashwi Yadav Challenges Nitish Kumar on Election Promises

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav has asserted that the government led by Nitish Kumar will be unable to fulfill its election promises, estimating the required funding at an overwhelming Rs 7 lakh crore. Speaking to reporters in Patna on September 28, 2023, Yadav criticized the recent announcements made by the Kumar administration, calling them mere reproductions of proposals he had previously announced.

Yadav emphasized that the government’s new initiatives, aimed at garnering support ahead of upcoming elections, are unrealistic given the current fiscal landscape. “They do not have enough revenue to fulfill the promises,” Yadav stated, underscoring the financial impracticality of the government’s plans.

He further characterized the Nitish Kumar government as “copycat,” suggesting that it lacks originality in its approach to policy-making. Yadav declared that the RJD has a strategic plan to counter the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) once election dates are confirmed. “We will reveal our cards once elections are announced and the model code of conduct is in place,” he noted, suggesting a tactical advantage for the opposition.

In a pointed critique, Yadav referred to a past video where Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Bihar government regarding corruption scandals. “They are now allies. But the Prime Minister likes to speak so much about corruption. We would like to know what action has been taken by his government in connection with the corruption scandals he was trying to expose,” he said.

On a lighter note, when asked about the upcoming Asia Cup final in Dubai, Yadav expressed confidence in India’s performance against Pakistan. “Asia Cup final is scheduled today. We all know what is going to be the result,” he remarked, highlighting his enthusiasm for cricket. At 35 years old, Yadav has a background in cricket and previously participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL) before transitioning into politics.

As the political landscape in Bihar heats up with the impending elections, the dialogue between Yadav and Kumar is expected to intensify, with both sides preparing to engage voters on their respective platforms.