It's a mandate against Modi, says Lalu

Lalu Prasad, whose RJD emerged the single largest party in the Bihar Assembly elections, said the result was a mandate against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and it would have wide political ramifications in future.

“The verdict is a slap on the face of the BJP, which merely spreads hatred in the country,” he said in his first press meet after the landslide win.

Lalu also clarified that Nitish Kumar would continue to be the chief minister of Bihar for the next five years despite the JD(U) getting marginally less seats compared to the RJD.

To launch nationwide stir Stating that he will launch a nationwide agitation against Modi till “the RSS packs him off to Gujarat”, Lalu said: “Now that the Bihar battle is over, the battle for Hastinapur (Delhi) will begin. I will lead the agitation against Modi, while leaving behind Nitish to govern Bihar.”

Nitish, who was also present at the press conference, said he would first thank the people of Bihar for maintaining communal harmony during the festivals of Dussehra and Muharram.

“Attempt was made to drive a wedge between people on religious lines but I am grateful to the people who showed enormous patience and amity,” said Nitish.

However, not willing to dwell on the issue of deputy chief ministership to any of the allies, Nitish said: “These issues are not discussed in press meet. Let the legislature party of all the three alliance partners meet first.”

Nitish indicated that once the Election Commission announces the complete result, he would initiate the process of swearing-in function and government formation in the state. Bihar Congress chief Ashok Choudhary was also present at the press meet.