Is Tejashwi Yadav's Promise to the Pasi Community Genuine?
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Synopsis
In a heated exchange, JD(U) leader Neeraj Kumar questions RJD's Tejashwi Yadav's intentions behind his promise to exclude toddy from the Liquor Prohibition Act, raising concerns over health implications and community welfare. Will this political move really benefit the Pasi community or just serve political interests?
Key Takeaways
- Tejashwi Yadav's promise to the Pasi community raises questions about political motives.
- Neeraj Kumar's critique highlights potential contradictions in RJD's policies.
- Nitish Kumar's initiatives have economically empowered many families in the Pasi community.
- Health implications of toddy consumption are under scrutiny.
- Political dynamics in Bihar continue to evolve as elections approach.
Patna, April 28 (NationPress) Following a recent pledge by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav to the Pasi community, known for their involvement in Nira (palm sap) production, he stated that toddy derived from this sap would be exempt from the Liquor Prohibition Act if the Mahagathbandhan government assumes control. In response, JD(U) leader Neeraj Kumar issued a pointed critique, questioning whether toddy should be classified as an intoxicant or a vitamin.
While addressing the media in Patna on Monday, Neeraj Kumar remarked, “Tejashwi Yadav has undermined the constitution of the RJD established by his father, Lalu Prasad Yadav. According to the RJD's constitution, anyone consuming intoxicants or alcohol is barred from becoming a party member. Yet, Tejashwi Yadav is now promoting toddy consumption among the Pasi community.”
Neeraj Kumar further ridiculed Tejashwi by challenging him to substantiate the health benefits of toddy.
“Tejashwi possesses a 43-bigha estate in Patna where it is reasonable to assume that some palm trees are present. Additionally, palm trees are likely located at his residence on 10 Circular Road. I challenge him to consume toddy from those trees, undergo a medical check-up, and then reveal to the public whether toddy boosts calcium, vitamins, or proteins in the body, or if intoxicants are detected in his blood,” Kumar stated.
Neeraj Kumar defended Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s initiatives aimed at the Pasi community, emphasizing that genuine efforts have been made to enhance their economic condition.
Nitish Kumar’s administration has allocated Rs 2 lakh per family for alternative employment opportunities, including cattle farming and agriculture-based livelihoods.
A total of 32,938 families have benefited from these initiatives, with 71 percent of those engaged in Nira production being members of the Pasi community.
“We are genuinely invested in the overall welfare of the Pasi community. In contrast, Tejashwi appears primarily concerned with their continued consumption of toddy,” Neeraj Kumar asserted.
On Sunday, during the Toddy Businessmen Mahajutan event in Patna, Tejashwi Yadav declared that if the Mahagathbandhan government is established after the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, toddy will be removed from the liquor ban list, and legal actions against toddy traders will be rescinded.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. While Neeraj Kumar raises valid concerns regarding the implications of Yadav's promise, it is equally important to recognize the socio-political dynamics at play. The welfare of the Pasi community should be the central focus, rather than political maneuvering.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Tejashwi Yadav's promise to the Pasi community?
Tejashwi Yadav promised that if the Mahagathbandhan government comes to power, toddy made from Nira would be exempt from the Liquor Prohibition Act.
What are the claims made by Neeraj Kumar regarding Tejashwi's intentions?
Neeraj Kumar questioned whether toddy is an intoxicant or a vitamin and challenged Tejashwi to prove its health benefits.
How has Nitish Kumar's government supported the Pasi community?
Nitish Kumar's government has provided Rs 2 lakh per family for alternative employment, benefiting over 32,000 families.
What was the main criticism from Neeraj Kumar?
Neeraj Kumar criticized Tejashwi for encouraging the consumption of toddy while undermining the RJD's constitution against intoxicants.
What event led to this political exchange?
The exchange was prompted by Tejashwi Yadav's announcement during the Toddy Businessmen Mahajutan programme in Patna.
