In a fiery display of outrage, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) activists in Patna set ablaze an effigy of Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday, protesting a shocking insult to their founder Ram Vilas Paswan by an RJD lawmaker. The term ‘bechara’ – implying helplessness – hurled in the Bihar assembly has sparked a political firestorm.
Hundreds gathered at Kargil Chowk, chanting against RJD and demanding justice for what they see as a deliberate smear on Paswan’s towering legacy. Arun Bharti, the party’s MP and key organizer, led the charge, calling the remark ‘utterly baseless and malicious.’ He pointed to RJD’s pattern of belittling Dalit icons and the underprivileged.
‘No apology from Tejashwi in the house means our agitation persists,’ Bharti asserted firmly. State president Raju Tiwari added that RJD’s declining relevance stems from such reckless rhetoric, emphasizing Paswan’s unparalleled service to every section of society.
The trigger was RJD MLA Kumar Sarvajeet’s comment during budget discussions, which drew swift condemnation from Chirag Paswan on Saturday. As a central minister, Chirag’s strong words amplified the uproar, positioning LJP as fierce defenders of Paswan’s honor.
This clash highlights Bihar’s volatile politics, where personal attacks on leaders like Paswan – a veteran champion of social justice – can mobilize masses overnight. Analysts note it could bolster LJP’s base among Paswan loyalists while embarrassing RJD ahead of crucial polls. The coming days will test both sides’ strategies in this escalating feud.