On September 11, 2025, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized the Bihar government for allegedly using excessive force—specifically police baton charges—against protesters in Patna. He posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing law enforcement targeting protesters demanding employment. In his post, Gandhi said (in Hindi): “When employment is asked for, one gets lathicharge. Instead of rights, one gets atrocities.” He added, “This time, the youth of Bihar will show this ‘guNDA’ government its real place – the countdown has begun.” (The Siasat Daily)
It is unclear whether Gandhi was referring to one of two recent protests: workers protesting the suspension of 16 land-surveyors who have been on strike, or aspirants staging a sit-in over delays in the release of supplementary results of a Teacher Recruitment Exam. (The Siasat Daily)
Context & Election Implications
- Bihar is slated to hold assembly elections in the near future. Political tension is high, and actions like police crackdowns on protests are becoming flashpoints for opposition leaders to criticize the ruling coalition. (The Siasat Daily)
- The protests reflect deeper grievances, including job scarcity, unemployment, and demands for transparency—issues which often mobilize young voters. Gandhi’s statement positions the opposition as responsive to these concerns. (The Siasat Daily)
