JJD Chief Tej Pratap Yadav Denies Paternity Rumors, Announces Legal Action
In a strongly worded press conference on Sunday, Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD) chief Tej Pratap Yadav vehemently denied circulating social media rumors alleging that a woman linked to him has given birth to his child. The former Bihar minister labeled the claims as false and defamatory, attributing them to political rivals and former associates engaged in a deliberate misinformation campaign.
Mental Distress and Targeted Campaign
Addressing reporters late in the evening, Yadav expressed severe mental distress caused by the rumors, which he described as part of a targeted campaign to malign him. He noted that the speculation resurfaced months after a controversy that led to his expulsion from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the party headed by his father, Lalu Prasad.
"I am distraught at rumors on social media that a woman with whom I had been falsely linked several months ago, which resulted in my expulsion from the party, has given birth to my child," Yadav stated emphatically.
Background of the Controversy
Providing context, Yadav recalled a viral post from his Facebook account last year that claimed he had been "in a relationship, for 12 years" with a woman. He reiterated that the post was not authored by him, alleging that his social media account had been compromised through hacking. Yadav pointed fingers at what he termed "the five Jaichands"—a metaphor for traitors—whom he publicly named.
- Mukesh Raushan, former MLA
- Sanjay Yadav, sitting RJD Rajya Sabha MP
- Shakti Singh Yadav, former MLA
- Rameez, considered close to Tejashwi Yadav
- Sunil Singh, member of the legislative council
Outright Rejection and Legal Threats
Yadav outright rejected the latest claims, telling reporters, "I reject this completely, a controversy was created, Akash Bhati will be revealing the truth. They are trying to defame me. I will go to court." He became aware of the rumors after learning that Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi had "congratulated" him on the alleged birth, which he said shocked him.
Political Motivations and Recent Activities
Yadav linked the renewed controversy to his recent political activities, including hosting a well-attended feast on Makar Sankranti. He suggested this success made his detractors wary of his party's prospects. "I will seek legal action against them. I will move the court. I have also sought an appointment with Home Minister Samrat Choudhary," he declared.
Appealing for an end to the speculation, Yadav added, "I beg my detractors to let me live in peace. I know the person with whom the woman is in a relationship and who, I believe, is the father of the child. They are causing mental anguish to me by dragging my name."
Past Controversies and Expulsion
Tej Pratap Yadav was expelled from the RJD last year for what the party described as "serious breaches of moral and social values," following a public fallout triggered by the viral Facebook post. This episode added to long-running controversies surrounding him, including his strained marriage with Aishwarya, the granddaughter of former Bihar Chief Minister Daroga Rai. Aishwarya left their matrimonial home within months of the wedding, alleging mistreatment, and their divorce case remains pending in court.
Political Journey and Future Plans
Since his expulsion, Yadav has floated his own political outfit, the Janshakti Janata Dal, and has repeatedly ruled out any return to the RJD, stating he would "choose death over returning to that party." He maintains that his political journey is guided by principles and self-respect, rather than the pursuit of power, as he navigates these turbulent allegations and prepares for legal battles ahead.
