Vaishali: The political atmosphere in Bihar intensified on Tuesday as Tej Pratap Yadav made a significant statement during the second phase of voting for the 2025 Assembly elections. Addressing the crowd in Mahua, where he is running as a candidate for the Janshakti Janata Dal, Tej Pratap asserted, “Mahua is known by our name, not by anyone else.” This declaration, perceived as a direct challenge to his brother and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, quickly became a focal point of discussion throughout the state. Renowned for his candid and often theatrical approach, Tej Pratap remarked that the voting climate this election was distinct from past experiences. “Women are standing in long queues and exercising their democratic rights.
People are voting in their own manner, and the atmosphere is encouraging. We anticipate change,” he stated during a press interaction. His comments indicated a growing assurance in his political path following his expulsion from the RJD. When questioned about Tejashwi Yadav’s assertion that he would be sworn in as Chief Minister on November 18, Tej Pratap smiled and replied, “Everything will be revealed on November 14.” This statement heightened the existing political strain between the two brothers, who are now rivals in separate constituencies. While Tejashwi campaigned in Raghopur, Tej Pratap is contesting from Mahua — marking a unique sibling rivalry in an election where they were once allies.
Tej Pratap Yadav’s newly formed party, the Janshakti Janata Dal, is vying for 25 seats in this election. He emphasized that his priorities lie with the public’s concerns and change rather than familial conflicts. By 3 pm, the voter turnout across 122 seats had exceeded 60.4%, indicating robust participation in this final phase of polling. Voting continued into the evening in several areas, with many anticipating record-breaking turnout in this round. The competition in Mahua has emerged as one of the most closely watched contests in Bihar, as both Yadav brothers seek to assert their influence among voters. For many in Mahua, Tej Pratap’s proclamation has heightened excitement and curiosity in an already charged election season.
Whether his assertion that “Mahua is known by our name” translates into electoral success will be determined once the results are announced.