Bihar – A political storm has erupted after a Congress unit’s ‘Bidis-Bihar’ post on GST reforms linked Bihar with bidis. The now-deleted post stated, “Bidis and Bihar start with B” and “cannot be considered a sin anymore”, sparking outrage across the state. Leaders of Bihar’s ruling alliance condemned the remark, calling it deeply insulting to the state and its people.
Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary Hits Back
Bihar deputy chief minister Samrat Choudhary led the charge, calling the Congress unit’s comment an affront to the dignity of Bihar. “First, the insult to the revered mother of our honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and now the insult to the entire Bihar—this is the true character of the Congress, which is repeatedly being exposed before the country,” Choudhary said. He further added that Bihar’s identity and history cannot be belittled by irresponsible remarks.
JDU Joins in Condemnation
Sanjay Kumar Jha of Janata Dal (United) also expressed sharp criticism, describing the post as “another extremely shameful act” by the Opposition.
“Let me tell you that B doesn’t just mean bidi, it also means buddhi (intellect), which you lack. B also means budget, which makes you jealous when Bihar receives special assistance,” Jha posted.
He added that mocking Bihar was equivalent to mocking India’s democratic and cultural legacy. Jha stressed that the people of Bihar would respond strongly in the upcoming elections.
BJP Spokesperson: “Congress Crosses Line Again”
National BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said the remarks revealed Congress’s recurring disregard for Bihar. “Congress crosses the line again. After abusing the Prime Minister’s mother, now they compare Bihar with bidi! Does Tejashwi Yadav endorse this?” Poonawalla questioned. He argued that this was part of a consistent pattern where Congress and its allies display bias against Bihar.
Ajay Alok: “Congress Out of Touch Since 1989”
Another BJP leader, Ajay Alok, said the controversy highlighted why the Congress has been irrelevant in Bihar for decades. “The Congress party, the B for ‘budbak’ (fool) and B for ‘baalbuddhi’ (childish), has been told of their status in Bihar since 1989. Today, they have called the entire Bihar ‘bidi’. So, the ‘bidi’ will burn them down. They will be wiped out,” Alok remarked.
GST Council Reduces Tax on Bidis
The controversy stems from the GST Council’s decision to lower tax on bidis. The council reduced the levy on bidis from 28% to 18%, while taxes on tendu leaves, used as bidi wrappers, were reduced from 18% to 5%. Additionally, the GST Council approved a structural reform by moving from four slabs—5%, 12%, 18% and 28%—to a simplified two-tier system of 5% and 18%. A special 40% tax will apply to select items such as tobacco and cigarettes.
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Political Impact in Bihar
Political observers say the uproar over the “Bidis-Bihar” remark could have long-term implications. Bihar, with its influential voter base, has always reacted strongly to issues touching upon dignity and cultural identity. By linking the state to a tobacco product, the Congress unit’s remark may have given the ruling alliance fresh ammunition ahead of upcoming polls.
Congress Faces Nationwide Backlash
Although the controversial post was deleted quickly, the damage appears significant. Critics point out that this is not the first time Congress has faced backlash for controversial remarks. Bihar leaders argue that the pattern suggests disregard for sentiments beyond political sparring.
The ruling alliance in Bihar is expected to use this controversy to consolidate its voter base further.
Bihar’s Identity Beyond Politics
The episode has once again highlighted how Bihar’s identity is sensitive in political discourse. From its history of intellectual and cultural contributions to its decisive role in India’s democracy, Bihar remains a state where words carry weight. Leaders across the ruling coalition insist that the people will respond to what they describe as repeated insults.
