Vaishali: The political temperature in Bihar rose sharply on Tuesday as Tej Pratap Yadav made a strong statement during the second phase of voting for the 2025 Assembly elections. Speaking in Mahua, where he is contesting from the Janshakti Janata Dal, Tej Pratap declared, “Mahua is known by our name, not by anyone else.” His words, seen as a direct challenge to his brother and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, quickly became a talking point across the state.
Tej Pratap, known for his outspoken and often dramatic style, said the voting atmosphere this time was different from previous elections. “Women are standing in long queues and giving their voice to democracy. People are voting in their own way, and the environment is positive. We hope there will be change,” he said while interacting with reporters. His remarks suggested growing confidence in his new political journey after being expelled from the RJD.
When asked about Tejashwi Yadav’s claim that he would be sworn in as Chief Minister on November 18, Tej Pratap smiled and replied, “Everything will be known on November 14.” His comment added fuel to the ongoing political tension between the two brothers, who are now contesting against each other in different constituencies. While Tejashwi campaigned in Raghopur, Tej Pratap is fighting from Mahua — turning the election into a rare face-off between siblings once seen as allies.
Tej Pratap Yadav’s new party, the Janshakti Janata Dal, is contesting on 25 seats this election. He said his focus is on people’s issues and change, not on family disputes. Meanwhile, by 3 pm, voter turnout across 122 seats had crossed 60.4%, showing strong participation in the final phase of polling. Voting continued until evening in several constituencies, with many expecting this round to break turnout records.
The contest in Mahua has become one of the most watched battles in Bihar, as both Yadav brothers test their influence among voters. For many in Mahua, Tej Pratap’s statement has added excitement and curiosity to an already intense election season. Whether his claim that “Mahua is known by our name” turns into electoral success will be known once the results are declared.
