Patna: Political activity in Bihar is expected to intensify later this month, with Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, the leader of the opposition in the state assembly, likely to be given a significant new role within the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
Party sources say preparations are nearly complete to appoint Yadav as the working national president of the RJD, with an announcement expected at the party’s national executive meeting on January 25. It is understood that RJD chief Lalu Prasad could himself formally declare the decision at the gathering.
There has been no official confirmation so far. However, political observers view the move as part of a broader attempt to reorganise and strengthen the party’s structure following recent electoral setbacks. Under the RJD’s constitution, the appointment of a national president requires the approval of the national council, meaning that the executive meeting may only table an informal proposal. The final announcement, party insiders say, would rest with the national president.
The speculation comes in the aftermath of a heavy defeat for the Grand Alliance in the Bihar assembly elections, which prompted questions over strategic decisions taken by Tejashwi Yadav and senior party leaders. In that context, elevating Yadav to the role of working president is being seen as an effort to consolidate leadership and chart a new direction for the party.
Meanwhile, developments are also under way within the Congress, the RJD’s key ally in Bihar. The party has summoned all six of its state MLAs to Delhi for a meeting scheduled on January 23, which will be attended by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Party sources say discussions are likely to focus on organisational strengthening, and may also include the selection of a leader of the legislative party.
