Is RJD Prioritizing Muscle Over Grassroots Workers? Tej Pratap's Raghopur Candidate Speaks Out

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Prem Kumar Yadav criticizes the RJD for prioritizing wealth and influence.
- The Janshakti Janata Dal aims to promote grassroots democracy.
- Calls for peaceful elections in Raghopur highlight the need for fair campaigning.
- Political heritage in Bihar emphasizes the importance of local engagement.
- Tej Pratap Yadav's candidacy raises questions about party dynamics.
Patna, Oct 22 (NationPress) Prem Kumar Yadav, the candidate from Bihar's Raghopur Assembly constituency representing the Janshakti Janata Dal, announced on Wednesday that his choice to leave the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) was influenced by the party's escalating focus on individuals with wealth and power rather than authentic grassroots workers.
Tej Pratap Yadav's Janshakti Janata Dal has nominated Prem Kumar Yadav for the Raghopur seat, which is also contested by RJD leader and Tej Pratap's younger brother, Tejashwi Yadav.
Previously the general secretary of the RJD youth wing, Prem Kumar, a native of Raghopur, submitted his nomination as a candidate for the Janshakti Janata Dal on October 17.
During a press briefing, Prem Kumar Yadav remarked, "I, Prem Kumar Yadav of the Janshakti Janata Dal, representing Tej Pratap Yadav's party, am standing for election in the Raghopur Assembly seat. We urge all Raghopur residents to ensure a peaceful electoral process without disruptions. Every candidate should be permitted to campaign freely in their areas."
He criticized the RJD for being controlled by those who possess financial and physical strength, inhibiting ordinary party members from operating independently.
"Currently, we are part of the Janshakti Janata Dal, not Tejashwi Yadav's RJD. The primary motivation for departing from the previous party is the obstacles faced. There is excessive barricading. Genuine workers lack any freedom. They are overshadowed by money and musclemen—some of whom are outsiders—and by sycophants. It is unfeasible for the locals to connect with grassroots leaders. The community should feel at ease," he stated.
Highlighting Bihar's illustrious political history, he added, "This is Bihar, the birthplace of J.P., Lohia, and Karpoori, and the land of Lalu Yadav. Everyone recalls how Lalu Yadav engaged with people, always keeping his doors open for the common man. The legacy of Karpoori Thakur and his leadership is well-known. Our heritage is our pride, and we need to advance with that legacy—not for the benefit of sycophants."
In a related note, Tej Pratap Yadav submitted his nomination for the Mahua Assembly seat in Vaishali district on October 16, bringing with him a photo of his grandmother, Marachia Devi.