The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar has unveiled its election manifesto, the "Sankalp Patra," which promises significant job creation, industrial growth, and infrastructure development. However, the announcement has been met with strong criticism from the opposition Mahagathbandhan bloc, led by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. He dismissed the manifesto as a collection of empty promises, referring to it as a bundle of "jumla" and suggested that the NDA should instead issue a "sorry patra" to the people of Bihar for its failures over the past two decades.
Tejashwi Yadav stated, "NDA should release a ‘sorry patra’ and apologise to the 14 crore people of Bihar. The state is the poorest despite their 20-year rule. There are no factories here, no investment. This government has failed in all sectors." He further criticized Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, implying that he might not even be aware of the manifesto's contents, as the press conference was unusually brief.
Confident in the Mahagathbandhan's chances, Tejashwi asserted, "People of Bihar have recognised their 'chaal, charitra.' They will give NDA a befitting reply this time. Mahagathbandhan will form the government. People of the state want to end unemployment." He also accused the NDA of copying his proposals, questioning their ability to deliver on their promise of one crore jobs.
Misa Bharti, RJD MP and daughter of party leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, echoed these sentiments, challenging the NDA's job creation claims. She stated, "How will they provide that (1 crore government jobs)? Where will they get the money from? When we said we would provide 10 lakh government jobs, we did. The Mahagathbandhan worries about the future of the youth."
The Congress party, part of the Mahagathbandhan, also criticized the NDA's manifesto. Party spokesperson Pawan Khera questioned the timing of the manifesto's release after 20 years of NDA governance, stating, "First, they should present their report card. They talk about bringing industries to every district, but Amit Shah asked where we would get land for industries. There is no coordination among these people."
In contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the NDA's manifesto, describing it as a vision for a self-reliant and developed Bihar. He emphasized the manifesto's commitment to improving the lives of farmers, youth, and families in the state. Modi stated, "The NDA’s manifesto for the Bihar Assembly elections clearly brings forward our vision for a self-reliant and developed Bihar."
The NDA's manifesto outlines 24 key promises, including the creation of over one crore jobs, establishment of industrial parks, and enhanced women's empowerment initiatives. It also pledges to make Bihar a hub for innovation and cultural tourism, with plans for significant investments in various sectors.
The Bihar Assembly elections are set to take place in two phases on November 6 and November 11, with results expected on November 14. The NDA coalition, comprising BJP, JD(U), and other partners, aims to secure a majority in the 243-member assembly, while the Mahagathbandhan seeks to challenge their long-standing rule.

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