Patna: Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding RJD leader Tej Pratap Yadav’s viral photos and videos with a woman identified as Anushka Yadav, her brother Akash Yadav on Tuesday evening addressed the media for the first time, urging both families to stop airing their grievances in public and resolve the issue privately.
“This is a personal matter between two adults,” Akash said, referring to Tej Pratap and his sister Anushka. “Whatever their decision may be, we, as her family, will stand by her for a better future. It would be better if the two of them speak directly about what has happened.”
Akash dismissed speculation around the alleged marriage and said the family has learned about the situation primarily through social media. He condemned the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Lalu family’s decision to expel Tej Pratap from both the party and the household, calling it unjustified. “Did he commit rape? Is he a criminal? Why such harsh punishment?” he asked, expressing disbelief at the political and personal fallout.
On Sunday, RJD supremo Lalu Prasad announced via Facebook that he had expelled his elder son Tej Pratap from both the party and the family over the controversy, fueling a political storm and triggering intense media scrutiny.
Akash further stated that “no one’s respect should be auctioned” and urged the Lalu family to resolve the matter privately rather than escalating tensions. “This should have been settled with a conversation, not through public drama. This is not Mughal-e-Azam,” he remarked, drawing attention to what he described as avoidable theatrics.
He also addressed allegations made against him, including claims of facilitating divorce proceedings, influencing transfers, and amassing wealth. “Ask them whether I was even present during the divorce proceedings. Lies are being spread against me. Someone close to Lalu Yadav, who helped demolish our house, is now his personal assistant,” he alleged.
Calling on RJD chief Lalu Prasad to take the initiative in de-escalating the situation, Akash said, “I will fight for my family and my sister, but I still respect Lalu ji. This should not go on. If it does, it will become an endless feud.”
