Patna, Oct 26 (NationPress) Abdul Bari Siddiqui, the principal general secretary of RJD and a close ally of Lalu Prasad Yadav, declared on Sunday that the electoral contest in Bihar represents a clash between two competing ideologies, emphasizing that the grand alliance is combating the communal agenda of NDA.

In a revealing interview with IANS, he addressed several topics, including his supposed dissatisfaction with the RJD leadership and the political implications of presenting Tejashwi Yadav as a Jananayak.

Here are the highlights from the interview:

IANS: This marks the first election in Bihar without RJD supremo Lalu Yadav. While Lalu is influential, it's largely a new team spearheaded by Tejashwi. What’s your perspective?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: Although Lalu Prasad Yadav is unwell and unable to participate physically in this electoral contest, his guidance, strategy, and vision are still the core principles that lead our fight against communal forces. Over time, Tejashwi has also established his own standing, but fundamentally, this election is about -- Lalu versus everyone else.

Political opponents are intimidated by Lalu’s extensive public service record, which is why they relentlessly attempt to undermine him through malicious campaigns.

IANS: There are suggestions that Abdul Bari Siddiqui is unhappy with the RJD leadership for not receiving proper representation in decision-making.

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: I am a founding member of Rashtriya Janata Dal and have stood by Lalu Yadav for decades, working collaboratively to advance the vision of Karpoori Thakur. For us, the party's ideology transcends individual concerns, so there’s no room for discord.

IANS: RJD officials assert that they will dismantle the Waqf bill once the Tejashwi-led alliance assumes power. What are your thoughts?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: This election is fundamentally a battle of ideologies. One side seeks to divide society along caste and religious lines, while the Mahagathbandhan is committed to progressive politics aimed at restoring communal and social harmony.

The NDA lacks a substantial record and therefore resorts to irrelevant issues to distort public discourse. They accuse us of 'jungle raj' to distract from their failures.

IANS: With Mukesh Sahani positioned as the Deputy CM face of the grand alliance, do you think this might alienate your minority voter base and harm the alliance's electoral chances?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: It’s natural for the minority community, including Muslims, to prioritize their dignity and security in elections. The BJP is not pursuing developmental politics; instead, they are attempting to polarize elections with their communal rhetoric. Their leaders claim they will rename Aliganj to Adarshganj. Is that what you consider development?

IANS: How do you evaluate VIP leader Mukesh Sahani? Can he be a reliable partner?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: Mukesh Sahani hails from a modest background and has gained popularity as the 'Son of Mallah'.

Lalu ji’s ideology focuses on empowering the backward and underprivileged, while the BJP is attempting to fragment elections along religious lines for political gain.

IANS: Tejashwi Yadav is being heralded as a Jananayak, yet even his brother Tej Pratap disapproves. What’s your response?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: When Jannayak Karpoori Thakur became Chief Minister, he implemented a reservation formula – 12% for Annexure 1, 8% for Annexure 2, 3% for women, and 3% for economically disadvantaged upper castes, totaling 26%. Despite criticism, this formula was vital.

Tejashwi carries forward Lalu Yadav's legacy and aspires to meet the needs of the backward classes. It will take time, but if he remains committed to the ideals of Karpoori Thakur and Lalu Yadav, the public will recognize him as a true champion of the people.

IANS: Will the Mahagathbandhan face repercussions due to delays in ticket distribution and campaign planning?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: Major parties require time to finalize details. However, the vision remains clear – the Mahagathbandhan is combating communal and divisive forces with its ethos of brotherhood and harmony.

IANS: UN Biswas mentioned that Congress aimed to protect Lalu Prasad Yadav in the fodder scam. What do you think?

Abdul Bari Siddiqui: I would argue that Lalu Yadav was unjustly framed and implicated. This government will also find itself in a compromising position once it is ousted from power. Corruption is now deeply entrenched; accomplishing work without bribery is nearly impossible.