Lalu Removes Son Tej Pratap Yadav from RJD for Not Upholding Party Values

On May 25, 2025, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav made a decisive move by expelling his elder son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from both the party and the family for six years. This action followed Tej Pratap’s controversial social media post revealing a 12-year-long relationship with a woman named Anushka Yadav, which he later claimed was the result of a hacked account. Lalu cited his son’s “irresponsible behaviour” and deviation from the party’s moral values as reasons for the expulsion. The expulsion has intensified the existing rift within the Yadav family, particularly between Tej Pratap and his younger brother, Tejashwi Yadav, who is seen as Lalu’s political heir. Tejashwi has maintained a distance from the controversy, emphasizing that his brother’s actions are personal matters. Meanwhile, their sister, Rohini Acharya, publicly supported Lalu’s decision, highlighting the importance of family honor and party integrity.

The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has seized upon the situation to criticize the RJD. BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal accused Lalu and his wife Rabri Devi of damaging multiple lives by arranging Tej Pratap’s marriage to Aishwarya Rai, despite knowing about his prior relationship. JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar and other leaders questioned the family’s moral values, while Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi called for accountability from both Lalu and Tej Pratap.

Tej Pratap’s political journey has been marked by controversies and a strained relationship with the party leadership. In 2019, he resigned as the head of the RJD’s student wing after his demands for candidate nominations were not met. He has also clashed with state party chief Jagadanand Singh and launched a parallel student organization, the Chhatra Janshakti Parishad, in 2021.

Speculations are rife that Tej Pratap may establish his own political outfit in response to his expulsion. Such a move could further fragment the RJD’s support base, particularly among Yadav voters, and impact the party’s prospects in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections.

This development underscores the complex interplay of personal and political dynamics within the Yadav family and the RJD. As the party navigates these internal challenges, its ability to present a united front in the face of external criticism and electoral competition remains to be seen.