Kerala Congress recently criticized the Centre over GST changes. The central government announced a sharp increase in GST on cigarettes and cigars to 40% from 28%. At the same time, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced reforms to ease the burden on common people. Many daily-use products will now be GST-free or taxed at just 5%. Items from milk to bikes will become cheaper before Navratri.
Congress argued that Rahul Gandhi had flagged this issue eight years ago, and the Centre acted only now. However, controversy broke out when Kerala Congress compared Bihar with bidi in its criticism. This remark has drawn serious backlash.
JD(U) president Sanjay Jha slammed the post as “shameful.” He said Bihar is not just linked with bidi but with a proud heritage, knowledge, and sacrifice. He stressed that mocking Bihar is an insult to its people and Indian democracy. Jha reminded that Bihar is the land of Buddha, Mahavira, and many freedom fighters.
With Bihar elections approaching, experts warn that such remarks may harm Congress politically. Since bidi consumption is common in the state, the comparison has triggered emotional reactions.
