Why is Pappu Yadav Supporting Tejashwi Yadav Amid Voter ID Controversy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pappu Yadav defends Tejashwi Yadav amid controversy.
- Concerns over Election Commission's impartiality arise.
- Support for Rahul Gandhi’s 'Matdata Adhikar Yatra' announced.
- Criticism of BJP’s use of religion for electoral gain.
- Importance of protecting the voting rights of marginalized communities emphasized.
Patna, Aug 4 (NationPress) The political landscape in Bihar has intensified following claims that Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly and a notable figure in the RJD, holds two voter ID cards.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a notice to Tejashwi requesting an explanation, a decision that has elicited strong reactions, including a surprising show of solidarity from Purnea MP Rajesh Ranjan, known as Pappu Yadav.
In a departure from his usual critical stance towards Tejashwi, Pappu Yadav defended the RJD leader, challenging the integrity and neutrality of the Election Commission.
“What is the Election Commission? Has it turned into a mouthpiece for a political party?” Pappu Yadav questioned.
“It appears to be acting under the directives of the BJP. First, let the Commission clarify how many names have been removed from the voter list,” he stated.
Yadav accused the Commission of targeting opposition leaders selectively, likening its actions to following a “BJP script,” and asserting that the notice against Tejashwi was politically motivated.
“Is the Election Commission akin to Aladdin’s lamp that whatever it declares becomes the truth? This is not how democracy is supposed to function,” he remarked.
Pappu Yadav further mentioned that such notices could stem from innocent errors, asserting, “Sometimes people misspeak — that doesn’t warrant criminalization.”
He also expressed his backing for Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Matdata Adhikar Yatra’, which is set to commence from Bihar.
“We are taking to the streets as the voice of the underprivileged. I will accompany Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi at various locations during the yatra,” Yadav indicated, stressing his commitment to safeguarding the voting rights of marginalized groups.
He emphasized that the movement transcends mere elections, aiming to protect democracy and thwart the systematic disenfranchisement of the poor.
When probed about Union Home Minister Amit Shah's forthcoming visit to Sitamarhi on August 8 for the foundation stone-laying of the Sita Maiya Temple at Punardham, Pappu Yadav sharply criticized, “This is not Sita Maiya’s pilgrimage — it’s an election campaign. These individuals remember religion solely during elections and quickly forget it afterward,” accusing the BJP of politicizing religion.
“They are neither genuine followers of Sanatan Dharma nor do they honor the culture of Sita Maiya. It’s all about securing votes.”