Five days before the first phase of the Bihar Assembly polls, chief minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday urged the people of the state to vote for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and give them “one more chance” to serve people.
In a video message, the 74-year-old leader recounted that when the reins of Bihar were taken over by him, the term ‘Bihari’ was considered an insult. However, tireless efforts have since been made to serve the people.
“In whatever circumstances we inherited Bihar, we managed it and worked for its development. Previously, being called a Bihari was an insult, but now it is a matter of honour," he said.
Appealing for a strong mandate for the NDA, Nitish Kumar said Bihar’s progress would continue if the coalition retained power.
"Give us (NDA) one more chance. We will develop Bihar in such a way that it will be included among the top states. Therefore, please reach your polling booth in maximum numbers and cast your vote," he said.
Kumar asserted that his government has worked for the development of all sections of society -- Hindu, Muslim, upper caste, backward, extremely backward, Dalit and Mahadalit -- without doing anything for his own family.
"The previous government did nothing for women. We have now empowered women to such an extent that they are no longer dependent on anyone and can take care of their families and children on their own. We want to tell you that from the very beginning, we have developed all sections of society. Whether it is Hindu, Muslim, upper caste, backwards, extremely backwards, Dalit, Mahadalit, work has been done for everyone. We did not do anything for our family," he said.
Highlighting his government’s efforts since 2005, the Bihar CM said it has remained dedicated to honest governance and public service, turning Bihar into a state its people can proudly call their own. He pointed to strides made in law and order, education, health, infrastructure, and job creation for youth.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government is giving full support to Bihar's development journey, said Kumar, adding that only the NDA can develop the state. “The speed of development has increased a lot due to the NDA government at both the Centre and the state,” he said.
Voting for the 243-seat Bihar Assembly will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, with the result to be declared on November 14.
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