Former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav’s daughter, Misa Bharti, has sparked a fresh controversy with her recent remarks targeting BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Bharti’s statement, made recently, has stirred a political debate between the BJP and the RJD, with BJP leaders criticizing her and cautioning against such assertions.
Political Flashpoint
Bharti’s statement, in which she hinted at putting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders behind bars if the opposition-led INDIA Alliance comes to power, has drawn sharp reactions from BJP MPs. They accused her of making her father’s promises seem trivial and cautioned her against making such assertions.
BJP’s Response
BJP leaders like Sudhanshu Trivedi, Ravi Shankar Prasad, and Vinod Tawade have strongly rebuked Bharti for her remarks. Trivedi stated that her statement undermines her father’s credibility, while Prasad warned her against dreaming of power, citing her family’s involvement in corruption. Tawade criticized the opposition’s campaign, describing it as stooping to unprecedented levels by discussing jail terms and even death for political rivals.
Electoral Context
Misa Bharti is set to contest the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the Pataliputra constituency, facing off against BJP candidate Ram Kripal Yadav, who defeated her in the previous elections. Bihar is gearing up for polling across all seven phases for its 40 Lok Sabha seats, with elections scheduled from Phase 1 to Phase 7.
Previous Electoral Performance
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the NDA, comprising BJP, JDU, and LJP, dominated Bihar by winning 39 out of 40 seats. The Mahagathbandhan, led by RJD, INC, and RLSP, secured just one seat. BJP emerged as the top performer with 17 seats, followed by JDU with 16 seats. LJP and INC won 6 and 1 seats respectively.
In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Bihar, BJP emerged as the largest party with 22 seats, followed by LJP with 6 seats, and RJD with 4 seats. INC managed to secure only 2 seats.
