RJD supremo Lalu Prasad launched a blistering attack on the BJP-led NDA government on Sunday, warning that compromised constitutional institutions, an aggressive market economy, and rising right-wing politics threaten the foundations of Indian democracy. He issued the statement in a written message on the occasion of the Rashtriya Janata Dal's 30th Foundation Day.
Challenges to democracy highlighted
Prasad stated that numerous democratic, progressive, socialist, and constitutional forces across the country are facing difficult times. He listed compromised constitutional institutions, an increasingly aggressive market economy, unchecked use of money power to influence voters and buy elected representatives, and the rise of reactionary right-wing politics as serious challenges to democracy.
He also accused the government of concealing issues such as representation of backward communities, equal opportunities in education and employment, rights and security of minorities, and government failures behind the so-called cloak of Hindutva.
RJD's founding mission
Recalling the party's founding on July 5, 1997, Prasad said the RJD was established to fight for the rights and dignity of the poor, oppressed, marginalised, and minorities. He called the day a turning point that transformed the course and character of politics in Bihar and across the country.
He expressed gratitude to every leader, colleague, and worker who stood firmly with the party through its journey, reaffirming the RJD's commitment to championing the cause of the poor, deprived, marginalised, vulnerable, and oppressed. He emphasised that the party's politics remains rooted in the fight against social and economic inequality and communalism.
Commitment to social justice
Prasad reiterated the party's dedication to ensuring that the poorest and the last person in society has an equal share and meaningful participation in development. He said the RJD's commitment to the ideals of Ram Manohar Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Karpoori Thakur, and B R Ambedkar has only grown stronger.
He added that the party stands at a stage where it must complete the struggle for economic and psychological empowerment, calling this legacy both the party's greatest strength and its most valuable asset. In today's atmosphere of opportunism, pessimism, and uncertainty, Prasad asserted that the RJD is the only political party capable of fulfilling the aspirations of those in need.
