As Bihar enters another election season, two words once again dominate its political discourse: ‘Jungle Raj’ and ‘Vikas.’ The ruling alliance, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has centred its campaign on this contrast. It portrays itself as a symbol of progress and governance while presenting the opposition as a reminder of a lawless and chaotic past.
The term ‘Jungle Raj’ became popular in Bihar’s politics during the late 1990s. It referred to a period when the state was widely seen as suffering from poor law and order, frequent kidnappings, and weak administration. The label was directed at the years when Lalu Prasad Yadav and his associates were in power between 1990 and 2004. Over time, it became a political shorthand for a phase of disorder and stagnation that many voters still recall.
In contrast, the current ruling coalition has built its campaign narrative around the theme of ‘Vikas,’ or development. Leaders have highlighted visible improvements in infrastructure, roads, electricity, and welfare schemes. The focus has been on creating jobs, attracting investment, and presenting Bihar as a state on the path to progress. During recent campaign rallies, the leadership urged people to vote for stability and good governance, warning against a return to the so-called ‘Jungle Raj.’
This rhetorical shift from fear to hope is not accidental. ‘Jungle Raj’ evokes memories of insecurity and decline, while ‘Vikas’ represents aspirations for growth and opportunity. The contrast appeals strongly to young voters, many of whom migrate to other states for work. For them, development means better job prospects and a chance to stay in Bihar. The message also seeks to connect emotionally with voters who have witnessed the state’s gradual transformation in the past two decades.
However, this messaging is not without its critics. Some argue that using ‘Jungle Raj’ as a label oversimplifies Bihar’s complex past, while others question whether the promises of ‘Vikas’ have been fully realised. Despite visible improvements in infrastructure and governance, unemployment and poverty remain major concerns. Critics say that true development should also include education, healthcare, and sustainable employment, not just roads and slogans.
For voters, the real challenge lies in separating rhetoric from reality. The 2025 Bihar election is not only a political contest but a test of how far the state has come. The shift from ‘Jungle Raj’ to ‘Vikas’ reflects a broader story Bihar’s journey from fear to hope, from instability to aspiration, and from past struggles to dreams of a better future.
Subscribe Deshwale on YouTube
