Patna: Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav on Tuesday made a direct appeal to the Vaishya community, urging them to place their trust in the Rashtriya Janata Dal-led alliance as he intensified his political outreach ahead of the general elections.
Speaking at an event in Patna on the birth anniversary of Bhama Shah — a historical icon of the Vaishya community — Yadav positioned himself as a long-term political alternative to the current NDA regime. “Just try us once. I have to do long-term politics,” he said, emphasising that his political vision is rooted in accountability and sustained development.
Yadav highlighted his government’s brief 17-month tenure, claiming that jobs were provided to people across castes and communities. “We are young, we have new thinking. Let’s build a new Bihar together,” he said, reinforcing the opposition’s campaign theme of change and inclusivity.
He also launched a scathing attack on the Nitish Kumar-led NDA government, pointing to rising crime in the state. “Every day, there are reports of kidnappings and rapes. The government has been in power for 20 years. Now it’s your turn to assess — has this government delivered on your needs?” he asked.
Tejashwi accused the BJP of fostering fear and intimidation, vowing not to compromise on law and order. “They only scare and threaten. But I’m here to stay, and I will not compromise on Bihar’s safety and dignity.”
The speech comes at a time when the opposition INDIA bloc is stepping up its outreach to non-Yadav OBCs and trading communities like the Vaishyas — traditionally seen as a BJP stronghold.
