Exclusive Interview: Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav Discusses Bihar Elections, NDA Strategy, and Governance Challenges

Exclusive: Mohan Yadav On Bihar Polls, Anant Singh And His Cabinet Reshuffle

Mohan Yadav engages in a transparent discussion with NDTV's Anurag Dwary

Bhopal:

Renowned author and satirist Sharad Joshi from Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain once experienced anxiety upon witnessing the crowded Patna railway station during his Bihar visit. Observing his discomfort, a porter asked, "Aap narbhasa gaye hain? (Are you nervous?)". This encounter later became immortalized in one of Joshi's clever satires.

Currently, another Ujjain native, Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister, traverses the same region that once inspired Joshi's humor. As one of NDA's prominent campaigners for the Bihar assembly elections, Yadav has been conducting extensive tours, addressing public rallies and connecting with voters across numerous constituencies.

His campaign occurs amid political tension, particularly following the controversial arrest of NDA candidate Anant Singh, a 'Bahubali' leader facing over 50 criminal charges. This development has ignited discussions regarding the BJP-led alliance's position on ethical politics and candidate selection criteria.

In a forthright conversation with NDTV's Anurag Dwary while traveling to Bihar, Yadav discussed the state's political climate, the NDA coalition, and governance matters in Madhya Pradesh.

Below are highlights from the interview:

Question 1: Is the NDA experiencing nervousness or confidence regarding Bihar?

Mohan Yadav: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the NDA government remains dedicated to public service. Since Nitish Kumar assumed power within the NDA government, Bihar has undergone complete transformation since 2004-05. Approvals exceeding Rs 15 lakh crore have been received through the Central Government. Bihar's developmental progress is truly remarkable.

Question 2: Which electoral areas have you visited, and what atmosphere are you observing locally?

Mohan Yadav: I've visited Bihar numerous times. I've lost track of how many constituencies I've toured. However, the present atmosphere clearly indicates that the NDA government will return with strong public endorsement once more.

Question 3: When you became Chief Minister, reports suggested you were selected to appeal to Yadav voters in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Now that you're campaigning there, do you believe this will advantage your party?

Mohan Yadav: Our party genuinely represents people from all backgrounds. It embraces every societal segment. Prime Minister Modi doesn't merely make promises. Our Prime Minister, National President, and entire party collectively believe in universal support, development, trust, and collaborative effort. These aren't merely words but actions. Our party has provided opportunities to workers like myself, whose families have no parliamentary or legislative representation or political background. It's therefore prideful that individuals like us can achieve Chief Minister positions. Several states have Chief Ministers without political family histories. This represents a truly democratic party, an organization that authentically honors republican principles.

Question 4: You and your party frequently characterize the previous Bihar government's tenure as "jungle raj." Yet your coalition partner has nominated Anant Singh, who faces over 50 criminal cases and has been incarcerated. Doesn't this contradict NDA's position on ethical politics?

Mohan Yadav: Our Prime Minister's policy remains explicit; nobody escapes accountability for wrongdoing. The party makes decisions, and appropriate action always follows when necessary. Courts determine guilt, and if someone is convicted, consequences must follow. That's the proper procedure.

Question 5: You often mention the historical and cultural connections between Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. Have you acquired any Bhojpuri during your visits?

Mohan Yadav: Centuries ago, Emperor Ashoka served as Ujjain district's governor; he was a prince here before becoming emperor. Later, King Bhoj ruled, with his descendants continuing that legacy. That's why there exists a dynasty known as "Ujjaini Thakur." The relationship between Ujjain and Bihar is ancient and enduring. All languages possess beauty.

Question 6: Returning to Madhya Pradesh matters, might there be a cabinet reorganization after Bihar's elections? There's speculation that performance evaluations have been prepared.

Mohan Yadav: Our party functions as a national organization. The Prime Minister, Union Minister Amit Shah, and BJP National President JP Nadda provide leadership. The party's system operates excellently; everything undergoes thorough review. Our cabinet has functioned for nearly two years, so evaluations naturally occur. Whatever the party decides, we support it. Work must continue effectively. When someone becomes a minister, the party provides opportunities based on public expectations. Such opportunities come after great merit, perhaps even reflecting good deeds from many lifetimes, so we should acknowledge and uphold excellence.

Question 7: You've written to the Central Government requesting direct Food Corporation of India (FCI) procurement of paddy and wheat. Opposition members allege the state government is avoiding responsibility.

Mohan Yadav: What's improper about FCI procuring our agricultural produce? In states where FCI experiences challenges, state governments provide procurement assistance. Here in Madhya Pradesh, FCI possesses full capability to procure all crops, including wheat, with state government support available.