Senior Congress leader Tariq Anwar has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar of exploiting religious leaders such as Acharya Dhirendra Shastri for political purposes in the run-up to the assembly elections. Anwar has alleged that the NDA is resorting to leveraging these religious figures because of its inadequate governance performance. The statement comes amidst the escalating political climate in Bihar, with various parties gearing up for the upcoming polls. Anwar’s criticism sheds light on the growing influence of religious leaders in the state’s political landscape and raises questions about the ethical use of such figures for electoral gains. As the state braces for a fiercely contested election, Anwar’s remarks have added a new dimension to the political discourse, highlighting the complex interplay between religion and politics in Bihar. The allegations made by the senior Congress leader have sparked a debate on the role of religious leaders in shaping the electoral narrative and have put the spotlight on the strategies employed by political parties to sway voter sentiments. With the assembly elections looming large, the political dynamics in Bihar are witnessing a paradigm shift, with religious leaders emerging as key players in the electoral arena. Anwar’s accusations have set the stage for a charged political debate, underscoring the significance of religious endorsements in the electoral landscape of Bihar.