During a public rally in Siwan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said clearly that “Panja and Lantern Together Hurt Bihar’s Pride.” The remark, targeting the Congress and RJD alliance, created a major buzz across the political stage. Modi didn’t just speak about symbols. He spoke about how past governments failed to give Bihar the respect and progress it deserved.

‘Panja and Lantern Together Hurt Bihar’s Pride,’ Modi Tells Bihar Public

While speaking to the crowd, PM Modi referred to the Congress party’s “panja” (hand symbol) and the RJD’s “lantern” as a symbol of darkness and damage. He said that when these two joined hands, Bihar’s growth was blocked. “They only brought fear, crime, and poor governance,” he added.

According to Modi, Bihar suffered during the time these parties ruled the state. He reminded people of the “jungle raj” years—when law and order had broken down and common people lived in fear. “The youth had no jobs, the poor had no rights, and the state was pushed backwards,” he said.

Modi Showcases Development, Blames Opposition for Decline

After strongly criticizing the opposition, Modi spoke about what his government is doing for Bihar. He said new trains, rail lines, clean water projects, and housing for the poor are all part of his vision. “We are working not just for Bihar, but with Bihar,” he said.

Some of the schemes he mentioned include:

• A new Vande Bharat Express for faster travel
• Drinking water pipelines for clean supply
• New houses for thousands of families
• A big sewage project under Namami Gange
• Export of made-in-Bihar locomotives to other countries

These, he said, show what true development looks like—not just promises.

Modi: Bihar Is Not a Playground for Vote-Bank Politics

In his speech, PM Modi warned that old parties are coming together again with the same “old ideas.” He said the “panja and lantern together hurt Bihar’s pride”, and if they return, they will again “pull Bihar into darkness.”

He told the people that these elections are not just about power, but about the future of Bihar. “It’s time to reject those who think of the state only during election time,” he said.

Opposition Reacts to PM’s Statement

Shortly after the rally, leaders from Congress and RJD criticized Modi’s words. They said he was making personal attacks instead of talking about real issues. RJD called his speech “divisive,” and Congress accused him of ignoring price rise and unemployment.

Still, the crowd in Siwan welcomed Modi’s speech with loud applause. Political analysts say this rally marks the beginning of an intense campaign season in Bihar.

Symbolism of ‘Panja’ and ‘Lantern’: A Deeper Political Message

When PM Modi said “panja and lantern together hurt Bihar’s pride,” he wasn’t just referring to party logos — he was making a deeper point about what those symbols represent in the minds of the people. The “panja” (Congress’s hand symbol) has long been associated with centralized power and unkept promises. The “lantern” (RJD’s symbol) is often linked to outdated governance and lack of development.

By combining these two, Modi painted a picture of backward politics trying to return. He accused them of holding Bihar in the dark, both literally and figuratively, during their years in power.

Bihar’s Pride, Lost and Found

Modi’s use of the word “pride” resonated strongly in his speech. He said Bihar has always had a rich history — the land of Nalanda, Chanakya, and Buddha — yet, the state’s image was tarnished by misrule and corruption under past governments.

“Bihar was not seen as a land of opportunity, but as a land of migration, chaos, and fear,” he remarked. Modi claimed that the combination of Congress and RJD, symbolized by panja and lantern, erased Bihar’s glory and potential on the national stage.

Public Sentiment: Past vs Present

In conversations with locals after the rally, many citizens echoed similar concerns. Some said that the return of Congress and RJD would mean the return of old problems — unstable electricity, poor roads, and delayed salaries for government workers. Others felt that at least under current leadership, things were improving — trains were faster, corruption was lower, and communication was better.

Modi’s statement about “panja and lantern together hurt Bihar’s pride” appears to have struck a chord with first-time voters especially, who have only heard stories of the older “jungle raj” era but see the contrast with what exists today.

Will the Slogan Stick in the Campaign?

Political analysts believe that this phrase — short, sharp, and symbolic — may become a key slogan in NDA’s Bihar campaign. Much like “double engine sarkar” or “jungle raj”, “panja and lantern together hurt Bihar’s pride” simplifies a complex narrative into something emotionally powerful and easy to remember.

If the NDA continues to repeat this message in rallies and digital campaigns, it could frame the entire election as a decision between Bihar’s past failures and future hopes.

Conclusion: Modi Targets Past, Talks Future

By saying “panja and lantern together hurt Bihar’s pride”, PM Modi has started a strong message campaign. His aim is clear: remind voters of the past, highlight his government’s work, and warn against letting old alliances return to power.

Whether this message connects with people will be seen in the upcoming elections. But one thing is clear — Bihar’s political battle has officially begun.

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