PM Modi Emphasizes Emotional Governance Over Election Politics Following Bihar Victory

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a meaningful reflection from his early political journey during a recent address.

New Delhi:

Speaking at the prestigious Sixth Ramnath Goenka Lecture organized by the Express Group, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a compelling discourse on Bihar's turbulent history and its promising trajectory. He reflected on what might have been possible under previous leadership while articulating his vision of compassionate, development-centered governance.

Amidst the celebrated awards recognizing journalistic excellence, the Prime Minister's address skillfully blended personal stories with incisive political observations, emphasizing that authentic leadership flourishes through empathy rather than constant campaigning.

"Lalu Yadav could have accomplished much more for Bihar had he chosen to," Prime Minister Modi observed. "Instead, he prioritized jungle raj."

This reference to the notorious period of lawlessness during Yadav's 1990s administration resonated with many attendees who remembered Bihar's descent into disorder—rampant kidnappings, violent caste conflicts, and deteriorating infrastructure that affected entire generations.

The Prime Minister drew a stark comparison with the current NDA-led government in Bihar, attributing consistent progress in infrastructure development, educational advancement, and women's empowerment to their leadership.

"Whether states have separate administrations or our central government is in charge, competition should focus on development," he emphasized, highlighting a federal philosophy where rivalry drives progress rather than discord.

The Prime Minister's message carried particular significance following BJP's recent electoral victories in Bihar, where substantial voter participation—particularly among women—indicated strong support for stability. However, PM Modi quickly shifted from celebrating victory to gently admonishing his own supporters.

"After our success in the Bihar elections, some Modi-enthusiasts in the media have begun suggesting that Modi and the BJP operate in perpetual election mode," he remarked with subtle humor. "They fail to understand that we must remain in emotional mode, not election mode."

This rare moment of introspection encouraged his party to direct post-election energy toward sincere public service rather than continuous political maneuvering.

In today's polarized discourse, the Prime Minister's message served as an appeal for authenticity—portraying governments as nurturers rather than mere strategists. Central to his address was the unwavering commitment to "alleviate the hardships of the poor and fulfill the aspirations of the middle class."

He highlighted Bihar's remarkable transformation through initiatives like PM Awas Yojana and Ujjwala, which have helped millions escape poverty.

"We've witnessed this transformation in Bihar," noted PM Modi, describing villages now illuminated by solar energy and connected via expressways—a dramatic departure from the shadows of 'jungle raj'.

The Prime Minister then shared a touching anecdote from his early political career, humanizing the challenges of grassroots activism.

Reflecting on the 1991 Lok Sabha elections, he mentioned Ramnath Goenka's trusted associate Nanaji Deshmukh and recalled "Ramnath ji," who once contested from Vidisha. As PM Modi recounted, he received advice from RSS icon Nanaji Deshmukh to simply file nomination papers, obtain the certificate, and then depart.

"I'm referring to the dedication of BJP's countless workers. Millions have nurtured the party's foundations," PM Modi added, acknowledging the party's steadfast supporters for sowing seeds of change now flourishing nationwide.

The evening ceremony, hosted at an elegant venue in the capital, celebrated Ramnath Goenka's legacy of courageous journalism—a figure who stood against the Emergency and championed truth.

Prime Minister Modi commended the awards as a "forum for ideas that shape our national discourse," aligning his concept of empathetic governance with Goenka's dedication to integrity.