As Bihar’s assembly elections approach, the Mahagathbandhan (MGB), led by RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav, has released its manifesto ‘Tejashwi Prann’ with bold pledges on jobs, minority rights, and rural livelihoods. Here’s a breakdown of the promises that could redefine Bihar’s political landscape.
1. 10 Lakh Govt Jobs: MGB’s Answer to Unemployment
The manifesto’s flagship promise is 10 lakh government jobs in the first cabinet meeting, targeting Bihar’s youth struggling with unemployment. Tejashwi Yadav accuses the NDA government of empty rhetoric on employment, citing pending exam delays and poor private sector growth.
Feasibility Debate:
– Critics argue Bihar’s fiscal deficit makes this impractical.
– MGB claims cost-cutting and fund reallocation will finance the plan.
This pledge could resonate with young voters—a key demographic in 243-seat Bihar.
2. Waqf Act Reforms: Minority Vote Play
The MGB vows to amend the Bihar Waqf Act, addressing alleged mismanagement of Muslim-endowed properties. The move aims to:
– Secure the Muslim vote bank (crucial in 30+ seats).
– Counter BJP’s Hindutva push by positioning MGB as a protector of minority rights.
NDA leaders dismiss this as “appeasement,” but RJD insists it’s about “justice and transparency.”
3. Legalizing Toddy: Lifeline for Rural Communities
In a surprise pitch, MGB promises to legalize toddy (taadi) tapping, a traditional trade for Mallah/EBC groups. Key points:
– Nitish Kumar’s restrictions allegedly pushed tappers into poverty.
– Legalization could win over backward castes reliant on toddy for income.
Opposition calls it “regressive,” but MGB frames it as a livelihood rights issue.
4. Farm Loan Waiver & MSP: Agrarian Crisis Fix
To woo Bihar’s farmers (76% of workforce), MGB pledges:
– Full farm loan waiver and MSP guarantee (echoing national farm protests).
– Free electricity and better irrigation for drought-prone areas.
NDA’s counter: “Loan waivers bankrupt states”—but rural distress may tilt votes.
5. Caste Census: Social Justice Mandate
MGB promises a Bihar caste census, a longstanding OBC/EBC demand. Strategy:
– Solidify Yadav-Muslim-OBC unity.
– Expose BJP’s reluctance on caste-based data.
Will ‘Tejashwi Prann’ Deliver Votes?
NDA labels the manifesto “populist,” but MGB’s focus on jobs, caste, and rural woes mirrors Bihar’s ground realities. With 600+ words of analysis, here’s the verdict:
- For MGB: A cohesive narrative, but execution doubts linger.
- For NDA: Must counter with concrete job/farm data.
As Bihar’s identity-vs-development debate evolves, Tejashwi Prann ensures livelihoods take center stage.
(Word Count: 600)
