Patna: Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) MLA Rameshwar Mahato has publicly signalled dissatisfaction with his party leadership, posting a pointed message on Facebook on Friday that appeared to criticise internal decision-making without directly naming anyone.
“Success in politics is achieved not only through speeches, but also through true intentions and strong policies,” Mahato wrote. “When the leadership’s intentions become clouded and policies begin to gravitate towards self-interest rather than public interest, the public cannot be kept in the dark for long. Today’s citizens are aware. They scrutinise every step, every decision, and every intention closely.”
Though Mahato avoided naming a target, the post is widely believed to be directed at party national president Upendra Kushwaha. Party insiders say Mahato has been unhappy with the appointment of Kushwaha’s son, Deepak Prakash, as Panchayati Raj Minister in the state government.
Leadership defends move, son responds to MLA’s post
Responding to the online remarks, Deepak Prakash commented that such concerns were “a family matter” and should not be aired publicly. Speaking to reporters later, he said he had not yet seen the MLA’s post.
Upendra Kushwaha has previously defended his decision to elevate Prakash to the cabinet, arguing it was necessary to stabilise the party. He has also pointed to past defections of MPs and MLAs elected on the ticket of his former party, the RLSP, as justification for tightening organisational control.
Mahato himself has a history of party shifts: once a JDU Legislative Council member, he later joined the RLSP and is now an RLM MLA.
The episode has added to growing signs of disquiet within the RLM, though party leaders have sought to downplay the friction.
