Patna (Bihar) [India], May 28: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) is facing internal strife after party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav expelled his eldest son Tej Pratap Yadav from both the party and family, citing his “irresponsible conduct” as a breach of the family’s values and a threat to the RJD’s moral position on social justice.
In a stern post on X (formerly Twitter), Lalu Yadav stated:
“The activities, public behaviour, and irresponsible conduct of my eldest son are not in line with our family’s values and cultural ethos. Ignoring moral values in personal life weakens our collective struggle for social justice.”
He added:
“Therefore, due to the above circumstances, I remove him from the party and family. From now on, he will not have any role of any kind in the party and family. He is expelled from the party for six years.”
Lalu also clarified that individuals are free to decide whether or not to maintain personal relations with Tej Pratap, signaling a complete break from his eldest son ahead of the crucial upcoming elections in Bihar.
Subhash Yadav Calls Out “Hasty Decision”
The decision has sparked dissent within the family. Subhash Yadav, Lalu’s brother-in-law, criticized the move, calling it “hasty and avoidable.”
“Lalu ji made a mistake by removing him from the party and family in a rush. This should not have been done,” Subhash Yadav told.
He called on Tej Pratap to speak publicly and clarify his side, implying that the move may have been politically motivated with an eye on the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
“I think this has been done keeping in mind the upcoming elections.”
Aishwarya Rai Breaks Silence
Adding to the unfolding drama, Tej Pratap’s ex-wife Aishwarya Rai also broke her silence on Monday, accusing the Yadav family of hypocrisy and staging a political drama.
“Why was my life ruined? Why was I beaten? Now they have suddenly had a social awakening,” said Rai, the granddaughter of former Bihar CM Daroga Rai.
She claimed that the marriage, which ended shortly after it began, was traumatic. Alleging domestic abuse and abandonment, she said:
“Everyone knows what happened… When will I get justice? I will continue my fight.”
Rai also revealed that she learned of her divorce through the media, highlighting the lack of communication and support during the ordeal.
“He had an affair for 12 years, and now the woman is being blamed—it’s the easiest escape.”
Political Implications
The timing of the expulsion, just ahead of key elections, has raised eyebrows. Political analysts suggest that Lalu Yadav may be trying to protect the RJD’s image and consolidate support around Tejashwi Yadav, who is seen as the political heir.
Tej Pratap Yadav has long had a strained relationship with his brother and has been increasingly sidelined within the party, often making headlines for controversial statements and erratic behavior.
With the RJD attempting to project unity and moral credibility, the expulsion of Tej Pratap appears to be a calculated, albeit controversial, move.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Tej Pratap chooses to remain silent, launch a political counterattack, or chart an independent course outside the RJD.