With the Bihar assembly elections looming, the political environment is charged with strategic moves. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is returning to Bihar with a focus on development projects and political outreach. His visit will include a rally in Siwan, which was once under the influence of Mohammad Shahabuddin. The aim is to make inroads in Siwan, Saran, and Gopalganj. A central question is whether the BJP can erode the influence of Lalu Yadav’s RJD in the Saran division.
PM Modi’s two-day tour includes visits to Bihar, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. The Bihar visit is especially significant, with elections expected in October-November. The BJP-led NDA currently governs Bihar, and PM Modi is focused on ensuring their continued rule.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Siwan includes the inauguration of development projects worth ₹5,736 crore. He will also launch the Vande Bharat train between Patna and Gorakhpur. Additionally, a 500 MW battery energy storage system will be established. Projects related to water supply, sanitation, and STP, with an investment of over ₹3,000 crore, will also be launched. Moreover, the PM will distribute the first installment to over 53,600 PM Awas Yojana beneficiaries and distribute keys to 6,684 urban poor families.
To gain ground in the Saran belt, PM Modi will address a large public meeting in Jasouli village, Siwan. The goal is to connect with the districts of Saran, Siwan, and Gopalganj. This will be the sixth Bihar visit for the Prime Minister in nine months. Political experts believe the rally is designed to reshape the political narrative in the Saran belt, a region traditionally loyal to Lalu Yadav.
The Saran division is considered an RJD stronghold, and the BJP is striving to break through this barrier. Siwan, Saran, and Gopalganj are the target areas of the BJP. The Mahagathbandhan had a strong showing in the 2020 assembly elections, winning 16 out of 24 seats in the Saran belt. The NDA is hoping the Prime Minister’s visit will provide a boost.
Siwan is seen as a stronghold of the late Mohammad Shahabuddin. The area includes a significant Muslim population and Yadav voters. The influence of Lalu Yadav in Chhapra and the dominance of his party in Gopalganj add to the political complexity. Despite the challenges, the NDA aims to gain momentum through the Prime Minister’s visit. The rally is seen as an attempt to shift the political environment and garner public support for the NDA.
