Bihar Bandh: Rahul joins Patna protest; BJP slams it as political drama
By : Krishna Mishra
The Mahagathbandhan alliance, led by the RJD and Congress, observed a statewide Bihar Bandh on Tuesday, mounting a massive protest against the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Alleging that names of poor and marginalized voters are being deleted ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, the alliance called the exercise politically motivated and demanded its rollback.
Widespread Disruptions Across Bihar
The bandh saw widespread disruptions with road blockades, railway track jams, and tire burnings across multiple cities. In Patna, Congress workers halted trains at Secretariat Halt station, while major roads including National Highway 30 in Maner were blocked by protesters lighting tyres. Similar scenes unfolded in Darbhanga, Hajipur, Araria, and Jehanabad. Protesters briefly stopped trains, including one led by supporters of Independent MP Pappu Yadav.
Rahul Gandhi Joins the Stir in Patna
Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi joined the agitation in Patna, showcasing the party’s full-throttle support for the bandh. Tejashwi Yadav, leader of the RJD, lashed out at the Election Commission, saying, “It has lost credibility and now functions like a political party’s branch.” He accused the EC of planning to disenfranchise the poor, warning it could be a prelude to the withdrawal of pensions and rations.
Political Crossfire: BJP vs Opposition
The BJP dismissed the bandh as a political stunt. MLA Haribhushan Thakur labeled the protestors as “goons” and claimed the public had not backed the bandh. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey accused the BJP of orchestrating the voter purge and turning the EC into a puppet body. He also condemned the law-and-order situation in Bihar.
Congress and Pappu Yadav Rally Behind the Poor
Bihar Congress President Rajesh Ram declared the protest was to defend democratic rights and ensure voting access for all. “Whenever democracy is in danger, Rahul Gandhi hits the streets,” he said. Pappu Yadav, leading his own group of protesters, warned the Election Commission, saying, “We won’t spare those who destroy the lives of the poor.”
Heavy Security, No Major Violence
The administration deployed large numbers of police and paramilitary personnel to maintain order. While the day witnessed significant disruption, officials said the situation was largely under control, and strict action would be taken against anyone damaging public property.