Narendra Modi-led Union government had announced Atmanirbhar Bharat programme, which included a series of reforms and financial assistance, to put the country on the path of self reliance in the wake of of COVID-19. This terminology of self reliance found resonance across the country as it had a ring of national pride in it. Now, the ruling BJP is using the phrase as an election slogan.
BJP chief J.P. Nadda, during his visit to Bihar to firm up seat sharing arrangement with ally JD(U), also announced 'Atmanirbhar Bihar' as its slogan for the upcoming assembly elections. With this slogan, the BJP aims to build its campaign around the positive promise of turning around the state in the “same way” Modi helped the country achieve self-reliance during its fight with the COVID-19.
Nadda said though he is often asked to speak about the shortcomings of the 15-year Lalu Prasad Yadav rule, he would rather focus on what the government is doing for the state, and intends to do. The BJP chief gave his party a catchy slogan to go to polls when the state was mired in rising COVID-19 cases, flood situation, and lack of livelihoods.
Nonetheless, the main reason for Nadda's visit was to formally begin seat sharing talk with his JD(U) counterpart and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. During the meeting held at the chief minister's residence, Nadda was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Shushil Modi, party's in-charge Bhupender Yadav, and state unit chief Sanjay Jaiswal. Both the sides are working on a formula to contest on equal number of seats.
Nadda, while addressing a rally later, said the elections will be held with Nitish Kumar's leadership, along with the LJP. Though the BJP has been asserting that the LJP was still in the fold, its party chief Chirag Paswan has been threatening to go solo. Paswan has been consistently critical of CM Kumar over various policy issues. He wants greater number of seats in the elections even though they could win only two last time in 2015. The BJP had won 53, and JD(U) 71, which was in alliance with the RJD.
Paswan has been asking for common minimum programme before going to elections. Nadda is expected to hold talks with other allies to arrive at a best suited seat sharing formula.
Before the elections are announced, the Union and the state government are going on a foundation stone/ inauguration of projects spree. The Centre has lined up for inauguration several thousands worth of projects in the next a few days before the model code of conduct comes into force.
