Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a public rally in Purnea, Bihar, on Monday, launched a sharp attack on the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)-led Mahagathbandhan alliance over the recent “bidi-Bihar” controversy. Calling it a deliberate insult to the state, PM Modi accused the opposition of constantly belittling Bihar every time it makes progress.

The controversy stems from a now-deleted social media post by the Kerala Congress unit, which appeared to mock Bihar by drawing a comparison between the state and bidis (traditional hand-rolled cigarettes), in the context of the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) rationalisation. The post sparked outrage for what many saw as a tasteless and derogatory remark aimed at Bihar.

Speaking on the issue, PM Modi said, “Whenever Bihar moves forward, these people get busy insulting it. You must have seen that RJD's ally, the Congress Party, is comparing Bihar to a beedi on social media. These people hate Bihar so much.”

He further alleged that the Congress and RJD have a history of undermining the state, not just through words but through years of corruption and misrule. “These people have caused a lot of damage to Bihar's reputation through scams and corruption. Now, when Bihar is trying to move ahead, they are trying to pull it back with such insults,” he said.

PM Modi’s remarks come at a time when political activity is heating up in Bihar, with elections approaching and alliances gearing up for battle. His speech sought to portray the Mahagathbandhan as not only disconnected from the aspirations of the people but also disrespectful toward the state’s identity and progress.

The Congress has not issued a formal response to the Prime Minister’s remarks so far. However, the deleted post has already drawn criticism from several quarters, including leaders within the opposition, for being insensitive.

The incident has become yet another flashpoint in an already charged political climate in Bihar, where cultural pride and development are set to be key themes in the upcoming elections.