Patna: As the Bihar assembly elections draw closer, political activity in the state is intensifying. On Saturday, former state minister Tej Pratap Yadav declared he would contest the upcoming polls as an independent candidate from the Mahua constituency. Speaking at his Patna residence, Yadav stated the campaign would run under the banner of “Team Tej Pratap,” a platform he describes as a direct channel to the public.
“There is no immediate plan to form a new party,” Tej Pratap clarified, “but this announcement will certainly make some people uncomfortable.”
The Mahua seat, located in Vaishali district, is where Tej Pratap first entered the assembly in 2015. In the 2020 elections, he shifted to Hasanpur in Samastipur but now appears disinterested in retaining that seat, choosing instead to return to his original constituency. His decision is expected to challenge the position of current RJD MLA Mukesh Kumar Roshan.
In a symbolic gesture, Tej Pratap wore a yellow cap during the press interaction and recently replaced the RJD flag on his vehicle with a yellow-green striped flag during a visit to Mahua. The colours have sparked speculation about a possible alignment with the Jan Suraj Party, although no official connection has been confirmed.
Tej Pratap also hinted at expanding his influence beyond Mahua. He announced the inclusion of Madan Yadav from Bhojpur in his team and confirmed that he would be fielded from Shahpur. “I have no shortage of candidates. People are coming to us. When the time is right, I will make decisions about the remaining seats,” he said.
Asked about a potential reconciliation with his brother, Tej Pratap responded, “If Tejashwi wants, he is welcome to join us.”
Criticising the current state leadership, Tej Pratap dismissed the idea of Nitish Kumar returning as Chief Minister. “This time, uncle will not become the Chief Minister. Whoever forms the government must talk about youth, employment, education, and health. I will fully support such an agenda.”
Tej Pratap’s moves come amid broader reshuffles and caste-based organisational changes within the RJD, indicating a turbulent pre-election season for Bihar’s political landscape.
