Does the JD(U) See RJD's Action as a 'Jungle Raj' in Bihar?
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Synopsis
In a fierce critique, JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha condemns RJD's choice of Osama Shahab, son of a controversial figure, for Bihar elections. This decision raises questions about the political alliance's commitment to a change from its past, drawing attention to Bihar's tumultuous history.
Key Takeaways
- Sanjay Jha criticizes RJD for nominating Osama Shahab.
- The decision reflects the legacy of 'Jungle Raj' in Bihar politics.
- The RJD's choice raises questions about their commitment to reform.
- CPI(ML) shows support for Osama despite past controversies.
- Shahabuddin's family continues to influence Bihar politics.
Patna, Oct 16 (NationPress) Janata Dal(United) MP Sanjay Jha criticized the Mahagathbandhan on Thursday for endorsing Mohammad Shahabuddin's son, Osama Shahab, for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. He remarked that this decision indicates the alliance's inability to break free from its past, as it continues to embody the notorious 'Jungle Raj' era.
Jha stated that the Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD) choice to nominate Osama mirrors the same governance culture that “once plunged Bihar into chaos and compelled residents to seek better prospects elsewhere.”
“For 15 years, individuals like these epitomized everything that went wrong. They were the embodiment of 'Jungle Raj'. Many left Bihar to escape the stigma; it became so severe that people felt embarrassed to declare their origins,” Jha expressed to reporters.
In his critique of the RJD leadership, he said, “This party's culture remains unchanged. How can they issue tickets to such figures and claim they will rejuvenate Bihar? What are their plans for good governance in the state?”
The RJD has nominated Osama Shahab, the son of the late RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, to contest from the Raghunathpur Assembly constituency in Siwan district.
This decision has triggered a political controversy, as Shahabuddin was embroiled in numerous criminal cases throughout his political career.
Interestingly, the RJD's ally, CPI(ML), which previously spearheaded significant protests against Shahabuddin's criminal conduct in Siwan, stated on Wednesday that they have “no issues” with his family.
Reports indicate that RJD's sitting MLA Hari Shankar Yadav relinquished his seat for Osama, after which party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav personally presented him with the election symbol.
Shahabuddin first entered the Lok Sabha from Siwan in 1996 after serving two terms as an MLA from Jiradei. Following his convictions in various criminal cases, he introduced his wife, Hina Shahab, into politics.
She has campaigned for Lok Sabha elections on an RJD ticket in 2009, 2014, and 2019 but has not been successful. Shahabuddin passed away in prison while serving his sentence.
Point of View
I find it crucial to highlight the implications of such political decisions. The nomination of Osama Shahab by the RJD raises essential questions about the party's direction and its ability to deliver on promises of reform. The echoes of the past, especially regarding lawlessness in Bihar, cannot be ignored, and voters must consider whether their choices reflect a genuine path toward progress.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Osama Shahab?
Osama Shahab is the son of the late RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, who was a controversial figure in Bihar politics, known for his criminal background.
What did Sanjay Jha say about RJD's decision?
Sanjay Jha criticized the RJD for nominating Osama Shahab, stating it signifies a failure to move past the 'Jungle Raj' era and reflects a governance culture that once led Bihar into chaos.
What is the 'Jungle Raj'?
'Jungle Raj' refers to a period in Bihar's history characterized by lawlessness, where crime and corruption were rampant, leading to a sense of insecurity among the populace.
What actions did the CPI(ML) take regarding Shahabuddin?
The CPI(ML), an ally of the RJD, previously led protests against Shahabuddin's criminal activities but recently stated they have 'no dispute' with his family.
What happened to Mohammad Shahabuddin?
Mohammad Shahabuddin passed away while serving a prison sentence, having been convicted in several criminal cases during his political career.
