Patna: The political scene in Bihar is becoming increasingly challenging for Tejashwi Yadav, the opposition leader and representative of the RJD. After a significant defeat in the recent assembly elections, Yadav is confronted with difficulties ranging from managing his divided family to revitalizing a dispirited party and addressing the rising influence of the BJP. In a notable post-election comment, his elder brother Tej Pratap Yadav attributed the loss to internal party issues, stating, “This is a crushing defeat for the Jaichands. These Jaichands have hollowed out the RJD from within. They have ruined it.
That is why Tejashwi failed today.” Additionally, Rohini Acharya, Tejashwi’s sister-in-law, announced her exit from both the party and the family, accepting personal responsibility for the defeat. Analysts indicate that these events illustrate the challenges Tejashwi will encounter moving forward. Here are five significant obstacles he must overcome: 1. Family Discord: Tejashwi’s elder brother Tej Pratap, previously seen as a political ally, ran against him by establishing the Janshakti Janata Dal and contesting 45 seats. Although he was largely unsuccessful, he defeated the RJD in Mahua, emphasizing internal family tensions. Rohini Acharya’s departure further complicates Tejashwi’s efforts to unify family support, with reported strains with his sister Misa Bharti as well.
The duration of Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi’s role as his political protectors remains uncertain. 2. Internal Party Resentment: Several party leaders, including former RJD women’s wing president Ritu Jaiswal, openly criticized Tejashwi’s inner circle for the electoral loss. Discontent towards close aides like Sanjay Yadav has intensified, and demoralized party workers could lead to further complications, raising the risk of a factional split within the RJD. 3. Pressure from Allies: The Grand Alliance parties have subtly shifted the blame onto Tejashwi for the electoral defeat. Left parties (CPI(ML), CPI(M), CPIM) might rethink their alliance if another opposition group seems more capable of challenging the BJP, potentially undermining the coalition. 4.
Shifting Muslim-Yadav Vote Bank: The previously solid Muslim-Yadav vote bank appears to be declining. In the latest elections, only 10 Muslim MLAs were elected, with five from AIMIM, and there has been a reduction in the number of Yadav MLAs. Political analyst Omprakash Ashk observes that voters, including some from the Muslim community, are exploring alternatives after deeming Tejashwi ineffective against the BJP’s ascendance. 5. Rising BJP Influence: The BJP has strengthened its foothold in Bihar, increasing its vote share by approximately 4%. Tejashwi now faces the dual task of revitalizing his party and establishing a credible alternative to the expanding NDA influence. Analysts contend that while the RJD retains historical appeal, demographic changes, particularly among EBCs, favor the BJP.
Political observers note that despite the recent challenges, there remains an opportunity for a rejuvenated opposition. Many voters seem to be seeking a third option, indicating possible avenues for Tejashwi and Prashant Kishor to restore the party’s significance over the coming five years.