Amit Shah Says Rahul Gandhi Insulted Chhath Maiya; Predicts Grand Alliance Will Be “Wiped Out” on November 14

By A Staff Reporter

Lakhisarai, Bihar | Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday launched a blistering attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at a rally in Lakhisarai, accusing him of insulting both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the devotees of Chhath Puja, and warning that the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) would face electoral rout when votes are counted on November 14. 

Shah said Rahul Gandhi’s remarks — which the Home Minister summarized as derogatory references to the Prime Minister and to Chhath devotees as engaging in “drama” — amounted to an affront to “Chhathi Maiya” and the faith of millions in Bihar. “Rahul Baba, you will not understand the importance and faith of Chhathi Maiya. Neither will your mother,” Shah told the crowd, adding that such comments had offended ordinary voters across the state. 

Turning to the larger political stakes, Shah predicted a decisive defeat for the Grand Alliance, saying: “When the boxes will be opened on the 14th November, the (Grand) Alliance will be wiped out.” He also accused Congress of repeatedly resorting to abusive language against the Prime Minister in the past and argued that such conduct has historically cost the party electorally.