Tejashwi Yadav attacks Bihar govt on crime, jobs on his 37th birthday
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) National Working President and Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, on Monday, 9 November 2026, mounted a sharp attack on the state government over deteriorating law and order, alleging that incidents of gunfire, robbery, and crimes against women and girls had become routine across Bihar. The remarks came at an RJD office function in Patna that doubled as a celebration of his 37th birthday.
Tejashwi's Allegations on Crime and Governance
Addressing party leaders and workers gathered at the RJD office, Tejashwi alleged that crime was continuing unabated in Bihar while the state government remained silent. He said he envisioned a Bihar free from corruption, crime, robbery and exploitation. He called for a brand of politics centred on employment and public welfare rather than divisiveness and hatred — a pointed contrast to the ruling dispensation's approach, as he framed it.
Notably, the opposition's focus on law and order comes against the backdrop of recurring reports of criminal incidents in various districts of Bihar. Critics argue that the state government has yet to present a credible action plan to address systemic policing gaps.
A Call to Carry Forward Lalu Prasad's Ideals
Tejashwi urged RJD leaders and workers to carry forward the ideals of party founder Lalu Prasad Yadav with renewed determination. He asked the cadre to reject divisive politics and take the party's message to every village and household in the state. He also appealed to supporters to maintain a positive outlook and participate in future movements, expressing confidence that growing public trust would strengthen the RJD's political standing in Bihar.
Birthday Celebration Details
The event was organised under the chairmanship of RJD state president Mangni Lal Mandal. State vice-president Dr Tanveer Hassan and party spokesperson Ejaz Ahmed conducted the proceedings. A 37-pound cake was cut in the presence of senior party leaders, amid slogans wishing Tejashwi a long life. Sweets and cake were subsequently distributed among those present.
Mandal felicitated Tejashwi with a shawl and a bouquet, saying the enthusiasm of the birthday celebration reflected the trust and affection people had for the RJD leader. He added that such gatherings could promote social harmony and give a new direction to Bihar's politics.
Political Context and What to Watch
This comes amid sustained RJD efforts to consolidate opposition ground ahead of the next Bihar Assembly election cycle. Tejashwi, still in his thirties, has increasingly positioned himself as the primary challenger to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. His emphasis on jobs and crime aligns with the RJD's traditional electoral messaging targeting youth unemployment and governance accountability. How the ruling alliance responds to these charges — and whether crime data supports or contradicts Tejashwi's framing — will shape the next phase of Bihar's political narrative.