Patna: Shyam Rajak, the former national general secretary of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), rejoined the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] today, marking a significant political shift. Rajak was formally inducted into the party by JD(U) national working president Sanjay Jha during a gathering at the party office.
Expressing his dissatisfaction with the RJD, Rajak said, “I was feeling suffocated in RJD.” He praised Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, describing him as a widely accepted leader, and added, “It will be a matter of good fortune for us to work with him.” Rajak also took a jab at RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, suggesting that Tejashwi should “hit the streets and sweat it out.” Rajak emphasized his faith in CM Nitish, stating that this trust is what led him back to JD(U).
The event saw the attendance of prominent JD(U) figures, including state president Umesh Kushwaha, ministers Vijay Chaudhary, Vijendra Yadav, Sunil Kumar, and Ratnesh Sada, among other senior party leaders. Sanjay Jha welcomed Rajak’s return, stating, “Shyam Rajak’s arrival will strengthen the party. JD(U) will benefit from his experience.”
Rajak’s departure from RJD on August 22 was marked by allegations of betrayal. In his resignation letter to RJD supremo Lalu Prasad, he wrote, “I was not fond of chess, so I got deceived. You were moving the pawns, I was maintaining the relationship.”
Speaking at the JD(U) event, Rajak highlighted Nitish’s efforts to transform Bihar, contrasting them with what he described as RJD’s descent into corruption. “In the party I was in, socialism turned into corruption. But Nitish Kumar always kept fighting for socialism. I am fortunate that I will get a chance to work with Nitish Kumar,” Rajak said. He also defended his decision to leave JD(U) in the past, clarifying that it was due to certain circumstances at the time. “Today, I have come back to my home. Whatever responsibility I get, I will work with full honesty,” he added.
Rajak’s return to JD(U) comes amid speculation about his political ambitions, particularly a desire to contest from the Phulwari seat. His discontent with RJD reportedly grew after the party sent Manoj Jha to the Rajya Sabha and Munni Rajak, from the Dhobi Samaj community to which Rajak belongs, to the Legislative Council. Rajak is rumored to be eyeing the Phulwari seat, potentially challenging Arun Manjhi if JD(U) decides to field him.
