Ousted from RJD, Tej Pratap Yadav Forms New 5-Party Alliance to Take on Family in Bihar Polls

Months after being expelled from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) by his father, Lalu Prasad, former Bihar minister Tej Pratap Yadav has announced the formation of a new political front to contest the upcoming assembly elections.

On Tuesday, Yadav unveiled a coalition of five minor parties, signaling his intent to challenge the party now led by his younger brother, Tejashwi Yadav.

Addressing a press conference, Tej Pratap introduced his new allies: the Vikas Vanchit Insaan Party (VVIP), Bhojpuriya Jan Morcha (BJM), Pragatisheel Janta Party (PJP), Wajib Adhikar Party (WAP), and the Sanyukt Kisan Vikas Party (SKVP).

He declared that the coalition is dedicated to social justice and the comprehensive development of Bihar, striking a defiant tone against his critics. “People are free to make fun of me, but I will tread my own path,” he stated. Yadav also confirmed he will contest as an Independent candidate from the Mahua assembly seat, a constituency he previously represented. Invoking socialist icons, he added, “If people give us the mandate, we will work to fulfill the dreams of Ram Manohar Lohia, Karpoori Thakur, and Jayaprakash Narayan.”

This dramatic political move follows his expulsion from the RJD on May 25 for six years due to what Lalu Prasad termed “irresponsible behaviour.” The ouster was reportedly triggered by a controversial social media post, which was later deleted, where Tej Pratap claimed to be in a relationship.

Following his expulsion, he alleged a conspiracy to drive a wedge between him and his brother Tejashwi, using the term “Jaichand” on social media to allude to betrayal from within. As Bihar heads towards elections later this year, this new alliance sets the stage for a direct political confrontation within one of India’s most prominent political families.