Chaired amid growing concerns over irrigation deficits, the session brought together 24 lawmakers, including BJP stalwarts such as Jagdish Shettar, Basavaraj Bommai, Govind Karjol, and Vishveshwar Hegde Kageri. The agenda zeroed in on streamlining projects like Mahadayi, Krishna, Tungabhadra, and Bhadra, while assessing overall irrigation advancements.

Shivakumar explained the deferral: ‘With polls announced in some states, our MPs wisely advised holding off to prevent any unintended fallout.’ This pragmatic approach reflects a shared priority—Karnataka’s welfare. He highlighted breakthroughs like the Upper Krishna Project’s land acquisition drive, where fair compensation has fast-tracked 1.33 lakh acres, funded generously in the national budget.

The Cauvery issue remains guided by judicial mandates, Shivakumar assured. Recent talks with Minister Prahlad Joshi paved the way for this forum. On Yettinahol, long-awaited environmental nods will spur immediate action on the near-complete initiative. ‘We’ve submitted key documents and briefed on progress,’ he added, thanking participants for fostering dialogue.

This initiative underscores a maturing political landscape where cross-party efforts tackle systemic water woes, potentially heralding accelerated project timelines and enhanced farmer support.

Delving into the reasons behind this support, Pal credited the administration’s proactive measures in key areas such as agriculture, education, and industrial growth. ‘The janata has spoken – they believe in Mahayuti’s delivery on promises,’ he said, referencing flagship programs that have boosted farmer incomes and youth employment.

The political landscape in India’s western powerhouse state has been dynamic, with Mahayuti consolidating power after dramatic shifts in leadership. Pal highlighted how the alliance has weathered storms, including internal dissent and opposition campaigns, to emerge stronger. Recent by-elections and local body polls serve as testimonials to this trend.

Opposition leaders have ramped up attacks, alleging favoritism and policy lapses, but Pal countered by showcasing data on GDP growth, reduced unemployment rates, and expanded social security nets. He outlined upcoming plans for smart city expansions and sustainable energy projects that promise long-term prosperity.

This declaration boosts morale within party ranks and sets the stage for strategic maneuvers ahead of national polls. Maharashtra, with its economic clout, remains a battleground where public trust translates to real power. Pal’s optimistic outlook reflects a coalition ready to accelerate development, honoring the faith reposed by its people.

Bharti recounted his experience in the foreign service, where he was posted in several locations. He reflected on how, upon returning to Bihar, it felt like going back a century due to the rigid social structure and narrow mindset. He emphasized that in most countries, individuals are aware of their rights and boundaries, which is often absent in Bihar. He believes this is why the state’s situation has deteriorated. He stated the leaders in Bihar have not been honest in their efforts and the state has lagged behind for 40 years. Jan Suraaj aims to present a new alternative with individuals of diverse thoughts to bring about a unified vision for Bihar’s progress.

When asked about accusations that Prashant Kishor is playing on the emotions of the people of Bihar, Bharti responded by questioning Kishor’s ambitions and what he sought to achieve. He suggested that there must have been a reason for Kishor to leave Nitish Kumar, given their previous close relationship. Bharti stated that Kishor had clearly explained why he left Kumar, having realized that the person he had supported as a leader had not worked for the welfare of the people. As a result, Kishor decided to directly engage with the public.

Bharti further noted that in 2015, Kishor recognized that Modi’s intentions did not align with the betterment of Bihar. Consequently, an attempt was made to form an alliance by removing the BJP and uniting other parties to work for Bihar’s improvement. Although the effort was good, it did not succeed. Subsequently, Kishor decided to leave and said that those he made leaders did not work for the people. When asked about allegations of Kishor being a dealmaker, Bharti said these accusations are emerging because of the growing acceptance of Jan Suraaj and Prashant Kishor, causing other parties to feel threatened. He believes these allegations are intended to mislead the public, questioning whether they would solve the problems of the people of Bihar. Bharti said that the accusers do not want Bihar to improve.

When questioned if the party had betrayed him, Bharti stated that when Jan Suraaj was launched in Bihar, he was selected as the state president. He mentioned that Kishor had announced from the stage that the most capable person at the lowest level of Jan Suraaj should be appointed as the state president, and he was chosen. The core committee then selected Uday Ji for the national president position.

Bharti emphasized that the issue of caste or religion is irrelevant now. He is in the party by choice and received offers from other parties as well, but he chose Jan Suraaj.

Regarding accusations of making allegations against BJP leaders without providing proof, Bharti said that they have never retracted their statements. They are sharing what needs to be shared with the public, and those who need to clarify should do so. He believes the public knows everything.

When asked about his expectations for the election results, Bharti stated that they are not fighting for governance in Jan Suraaj. They will not form any alliances, as this is what those who want power at any cost do. They are here to reform the system and will not support criminals. They believe they cannot improve the system by supporting them. He mentioned that 3 to 5 lakh people are joining their party every day.

A joint press conference was held on Tuesday in Patna at the BJP’s state-level office, where the state presidents of all NDA constituent parties provided details about the bandh. Present at the event were Dr. Dilip Jaiswal, BJP state president; Anil Kumar, HAM party state president; Umesh Singh Kushwaha, Janata Dal United state president; Raju Tiwari, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) state president; and Madan Chaudhary, in-charge state president of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha. Also in attendance were representatives from the NDA’s women’s wing: Baby Kumari, Vice President of the BJP Mahila Morcha; Dr. Bharti Mehta, State President of Janata Dal United’s Women’s Wing; Kumari Shobha Sinha, State President of Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas)’s Women’s Wing; and Smriti Kushwaha from the Rashtriya Lok Morcha Women’s Wing.

BJP State President Dilip Jaiswal stated that offensive language was used against PM Modi and his late mother from the stage of the Congress and RJD in Darbhanga. He emphasized that this was not only condemnable but also tarnished democracy and the state of Bihar. He highlighted that a mother is a mother, regardless of her political affiliation, and is revered as a form of God. He questioned how anyone could imagine using such abusive language against a mother from a political platform.

He further stated that the NDA has called for a Bihar bandh on September 4th to protest the offensive remarks. This bandh is intended to be a public response to the statements made by the RJD and Congress, and he wished for wisdom for their leaders. Providing details about the bandh, the NDA leader mentioned that it would start at 7 am and continue until 12 pm. Emergency services and rail services have been excluded from the bandh.

Dr. Dilip Jaiswal appealed to the public to support the Bihar bandh on September 4th, stating that the actions of the RJD and Congress were shameful and needed to be countered. He added that the women’s wings of all NDA constituent parties would lead the bandh.

Umesh Singh Kushwaha remarked that the language used was a significant stain on democratic traditions. He noted that a mother is considered a goddess in Indian culture, and the most significant point is that no leader from the Mahagathbandhan has offered a public apology. He questioned the motives of the Mahagathbandhan and the extent of their arrogance.

During the joint press conference, Raju Tiwari stated that this behavior reflects their values, referencing similar language used against Chirag Paswan’s family in 2024. He condemned the insult to the word ‘mother.’

Dr. Anil Kumar expressed deep displeasure over the remarks, saying that the language used had frightened the people of Bihar. He recalled the days of their ‘jungle raj’ and asserted the importance of respecting mothers.

Madan Chaudhary, in-charge state president of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha, stated that they are showing their true colors. He emphasized that they respect everyone’s mothers and would support the bandh. Dr. Bharti Mehta, the state president of JDU’s women’s wing, also condemned the remarks, stating that the use of such language against the Prime Minister’s mother was an insult to the entire nation. She urged the people of Bihar to support the bandh.