Patna: The political corridors of Bihar are abuzz after Lalu Prasad Yadav’s elder son, Tej Pratap Yadav, was seen sharing space with BJP MP and Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan — first on November 7 at Patna airport, and again the next day. Hours later, the Union Home Ministry approved Y+ security for Tej Pratap, reigniting rumours of his growing proximity to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The new security cover provides Tej Pratap with two personal security officers and nine CRPF commandos, marking a significant escalation in his protection. Sources said the decision followed a detailed intelligence report warning of potential threats after the murder of RJD leader Dular Chand Yadav in Mokama.
However, the timing of the move — just days before the crucial Bihar Assembly elections — has sparked talk that it may carry political undertones.
The Buzz Around Tej Pratap’s Security Upgrade
According to Home Ministry sources, Tej Pratap’s name was added to the VIP Protection List following a security review. The move came after he expressed fear of an assassination attempt and requested central protection.
Yet, the decision coincided with his public appearances alongside Ravi Kishan, adding fuel to speculation. Tej Pratap, who now heads his own party — Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD) — downplayed the connection, calling his meeting with Ravi Kishan “a coincidence.”
Ravi Kishan, meanwhile, said, “The BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi always keep their doors open for Lord Shiva’s devotees who wish to serve selflessly, not for personal gain.”
Political Analysts Read Between the Lines
Senior journalist Abhiranjan Kumar suggests that while the government cited security reasons, “political use of security is not a myth, but a reality.” He added, “Tej Pratap had been demanding security for months, but it was granted only after he began targeting Tejashwi Yadav.”
The move, he says, could indicate that the BJP sees an opportunity in the widening rift within the Yadav family.
BJP’s History of Welcoming Political Heirs
Political observers note that the BJP has previously attempted to leverage internal family divisions to weaken regional parties.
- In Jharkhand, the BJP inducted Sita Soren, daughter-in-law of Shibu Soren, after her fallout with Hemant Soren.
- In Uttar Pradesh, Aparna Yadav, daughter-in-law of Mulayam Singh Yadav, joined the BJP after the Samajwadi family split.
- In the 1980s, the party backed Maneka Gandhi, daughter-in-law of Indira Gandhi, and later her son Varun Gandhi became a BJP MP.
Political analyst Sanjay Singh said, “The BJP’s strategy has been consistent — target powerful regional families, fuel internal rifts, and absorb influential members to weaken the core.”
Why Tej Pratap Matters to the BJP
Tej Pratap, who is contesting 44 seats under the JJD banner, could help the BJP reach Bihar’s Yadav voter base — traditionally loyal to the RJD. The Yadav community accounts for around 14.26% of the state’s population and plays a decisive role in over 70 constituencies.
“Despite years of effort through leaders like Nand Kishore Yadav and Nityanand Rai, the BJP hasn’t managed to consolidate Yadav support,” Abhiranjan Kumar said. “By strengthening Tej Pratap, the BJP hopes to fracture the Yadav unity that has long powered Lalu’s politics.”
Tej Pratap’s newfound assertiveness and his campaign against his brother Tejashwi Yadav in Raghopur have further widened the family divide.
Past Evidence of Political Damage
This isn’t the first time Tej Pratap’s moves have hurt the RJD. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he fielded his close aide Chandra Prakash from Jehanabad after being denied a ticket. RJD’s candidate lost that seat by a margin of just 1,751 votes — smaller than the votes Tej Pratap’s ally received.
The episode remains a case study of how Tej Pratap’s rebellion can dent the RJD’s prospects.
Could Tej Pratap Join the BJP?
While Tej Pratap has avoided giving a direct answer, his November 7 remark at Patna airport — “We are with those who develop Bihar and give jobs to the people” — hinted at an openness to alignment.
Journalist Abhiranjan Kumar said, “The Centre’s decision on his security indicates that the BJP is no longer uncertain about him. They may not hesitate to induct him if he agrees.”
However, he added, “Tej Pratap must decide whether he wants to join the BJP for a limited political career — like Maneka Gandhi’s trajectory — or continue his independent journey in state politics.”
The Road Ahead
With the Bihar elections underway and counting scheduled for November 14, Tej Pratap’s next move is being watched closely by both allies and adversaries. His growing independence, repeated attacks on Tejashwi, and sudden central security upgrade have turned him into a political wildcard — one that could reshape the Yadav family narrative and the larger power equation in Bihar.
