Patna, Aug 1 (NationPress) Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and a former minister in Bihar, provided a non-committal response when queried about the likely winner in the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections — the Mahagathbandhan or the NDA. He emphasized that it's the citizens who determine the outcome, rather than making predictions.

In an exclusive discussion with IANS, Tej Pratap touched on various topics including the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) initiative in Bihar, escalating crime rates in the state, and the internal dynamics of the RJD.

Excerpts from the interview:

IANS: You’re running again from Mahua. What would you like to say about that?

Tej Pratap Yadav: I’ve previously won in Mahua and served as the Health Minister of Bihar. I successfully established a medical college in the area. We've accomplished significant development work there. So yes, I'm contesting again. Many young individuals in Bihar are stepping into politics as Independents, and I’ll support them too.

IANS: Do you perceive the ECI’s SIR as a threat?

Tej Pratap Yadav: These matters seem to crop up conveniently during election periods. Where were these issues before? This initiative appears to be targeting socialist ideology by labeling them as outsiders. Nevertheless, I assure you — the people of Bihar are not intimidated. They comprehend the reality.

IANS: Tejashwi Yadav is rumored to be considering an election boycott due to SIR and your expulsion from the party. What is your take?

Tej Pratap Yadav: You should direct that question to him. I am no longer affiliated with the party or its organization, hence I cannot comment.

IANS: How do you view your six-year suspension from the party?

Tej Pratap Yadav: Those behind the conspiracy are being observed by God. I’ve moved past that chapter. My present focus is on the youth and their issues.

IANS: Who do you think will govern Bihar next — the Mahagathbandhan or the NDA?

Tej Pratap Yadav: As I mentioned, I don't engage in such evaluations. The populace will determine who succeeds or fails.

IANS: What’s your perspective on Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a leader?

Tej Pratap Yadav: Everyone has their unique style. The public will decide who they regard as effective. Personally, I do not view him as a commendable leader — nor do I see Prashant Kishor as one. My leader is Lalu Prasad Yadav, and I am committed to upholding his ideology.

IANS: You had a recent visit to the Samajwadi Party office. Are you considering joining them?

Tej Pratap Yadav: No, we share a long-standing familial connection with Akhilesh Yadav. I merely went to meet SP leaders. The media exaggerated the situation, suggesting I was joining the party.

IANS: Will Tejashwi Yadav ascend as the Chief Minister?

Tej Pratap Yadav: That’s a decision for the public to make. As his elder brother, I extend my blessings and hope for his continued progress.

IANS: What are your thoughts on Bihar CM Nitish Kumar?

Tej Pratap Yadav: What can I say about Nitish Kumar... the entire state of Bihar is aware of him.

IANS: Tejashwi claims the NDA government is imitating his proposed schemes. What’s your opinion?

Tej Pratap Yadav: I’m not sure what they are doing. Just look around, the conditions in Bihar are dire. It's not just jungle raj, it's Maha-Maha jungle raj. The situation does not bode well for Nitish Kumar. His tenure in power may be coming to an end.

IANS: There have been incidents in Bihar such as hospital killings and people being set ablaze. What do you say to that?

Tej Pratap Yadav: The law and order situation has disintegrated completely. To be honest, I find it amusing when someone mentions it now. No one knows when or where a criminal might strike. If this trend continues, I don’t foresee the JD-U regaining power.