RJD Leader Tejashwi Yadav Launches Scathing Attack on Bihar Government
In a fiery address at a state-level function commemorating the birth anniversary of Sant Ravidas, RJD working president Tejashwi Prasad Yadav launched a blistering critique of the current political landscape in Bihar. The event, organized by the Ravidas Chetna Manch under the leadership of a former MLA, took place at the Miller School ground in Patna.
Allegations of Political Manipulation
Tejashwi Yadav did not mince words as he accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of exploiting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to advance its own political agenda. "The BJP has been using CM Nitish Kumar to further its own agenda," he declared, setting the tone for his comprehensive indictment of the ruling coalition.
Criticism of Anti-Encroachment Drives
The RJD leader expressed deep concern over the government's anti-encroachment initiatives, which he claimed are disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. "They have taken your votes and have not only forgotten you all, but are also uprooting the poor, oppressed, deprived, backward and extremely backward caste groups, as well as dalits and poor roadside vegetable vendors from their houses," Tejashwi asserted. He argued that these actions are being carried out under the guise of urban development but are actually displacing marginalized sections of society.
Rising Crime and Failed Prohibition
Tejashwi Yadav highlighted what he described as a deteriorating law and order situation in Bihar. He pointed to an increasing crime graph, with particular emphasis on rising incidents of violence against women and girls. "Criminals feel protected under this regime," he alleged, suggesting a climate of impunity.
The RJD leader also declared the state's prohibition policy a complete failure. "The prohibition has completely failed and the liquor mafia elements enjoy protection," he stated, adding that while the liquor trade continues to flourish, poor individuals are being disproportionately targeted and imprisoned for minor violations.
Stalled Job Reservation Proposal
Reflecting on his tenure as deputy chief minister in the Grand Alliance government from August 2022 to January 2024, Tejashwi recalled a significant policy initiative. Following a comprehensive caste-based headcount and general economic survey, the cabinet had approved a proposal to grant 65% job reservation to designated social groups. This proposal was subsequently forwarded to the central government for inclusion in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution to provide it with legal protection.
"It has been embroiled in legal matters and put on the backburner," Tejashwi lamented, directly blaming the BJP for stalling what he described as a crucial measure for social justice. He characterized the BJP as the party that had "devoured" this progressive initiative.
Call for Unity and Constitutional Protection
In his concluding remarks, Tejashwi Yadav made an impassioned appeal to dalits and other deprived communities. He urged them to remain united and collectively fight for their rights while safeguarding the Constitution framed by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, which he alleged is being systematically "weakened" by the current political forces.
He also encouraged the audience to embrace the ideas of prominent social reformers and socialist thinkers, including Ram Manohar Lohia, Karpoori Thakur, and RJD president Lalu Prasad, as guiding principles in their struggle for justice and equality.
JD(U) Response to Allegations
Reacting to Tejashwi Yadav's claims, JD(U) MLC and party chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar offered a pointed rebuttal. Regarding the prohibition criticism, Kumar highlighted that "his party received Rs 46 crore from liquor companies under the electoral bonds scheme," suggesting potential hypocrisy in the RJD's stance.
On the issue of crime, Kumar defended the NDA government's record, stating, "His attack on crime is baseless, because no NDA constituent, unlike the RJD, influences action against any criminal." This response underscores the ongoing political tensions between the ruling coalition and opposition parties in Bihar.
