Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge Slams BJP, Calls Nitish Kumar a ‘Liability’ Ahead of Bihar Polls

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge launched a blistering attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accusing the BJP of "mentally retiring" the Bihar CM and branding him a "liability." Speaking on Wednesday, Kharge asserted that the upcoming assembly polls would mark the beginning of the end for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "corrupt rule" at the Centre.

Allegations of Electoral Manipulation

Kharge targeted the BJP and the Election Commission, raising concerns over alleged "vote chori" and manipulation of electoral rolls through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). He highlighted the extended Congress Working Committee meeting in Bihar, calling it a reaffirmation of the party's commitment to protecting democracy and the Constitution.

Recalling the historic Constituent Assembly proposal 85 years ago at Ramgarh, Kharge praised India's founding leaders for safeguarding the principle of "one person, one vote". He warned that today's democracy faces threats due to doubts over the fairness and transparency of the Election Commission itself.

Critique of Modi Government

Kharge did not hold back in criticizing the Modi-led government for the economic slowdown, rising unemployment, and increasing social divisions. He pointed out that the promise of two crore jobs remains unfulfilled, youth continue to struggle, and policies like demonetisation and GST have disrupted the economy.

He also referenced international concerns, saying, "Our problems at the international level are the result of the diplomatic failure of Narendra Modi and his government. The very friends whom the prime minister boasts about as 'my friends' are today putting India in numerous troubles."

'Double Engine' Claim Falls Flat

Kharge criticized Bihar's economic performance under the BJP-led NDA, which returned to power in January 2024 with Nitish Kumar. He described the "double-engine" claim as hollow, pointing to the absence of special central packages for Bihar.

Highlighting Bihar's challenges, Kharge cited high unemployment (over 15%), mass youth migration, and recruitment scams that sparked protests and police crackdowns. He also hinted at internal tensions within the NDA, claiming the BJP views Nitish Kumar as a liability.

Kharge concluded by asserting that the Bihar assembly elections in 2025 will be a landmark event, signaling the decline of Modi's governance and a turning point in Indian politics.