New Delhi, May 25, 2025 — The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Bihar’s prominent opposition party, faced political uncertainty on Sunday. The party plunged into turmoil on Sunday. This happened when party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav expelled his eldest son, Tej Pratap Yadav. The expulsion from the party will last for six years. The move was prompted by a controversial social media post. Ongoing personal scandals also influenced it. It is seen as a bid to preserve the party’s moral credibility. However, it may also deepen internal divisions. It could complicate RJD’s future electoral prospects.
Lalu’s dramatic announcement came after Tej Pratap made a Facebook post claiming to have been in a 12-year relationship. This raised eyebrows. He is still entangled in a contentious divorce battle with Aishwarya Rai. She is the granddaughter of former Bihar CM Daroga Rai. The post was later deleted. Tej Pratap alleged his account had been hacked. He claimed AI-generated images were being used to smear him.
Tejashwi’s Firm Support for Father’s Decision
Tejashwi Yadav responded to the developments. The former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister showed his unequivocal support. He is the RJD’s de facto leader-in-waiting. He supported his father’s disciplinary action. Speaking to the media, Tejashwi said, “We cannot tolerate such things. We are dedicated to public service. Political and personal lives are different, but public conduct matters. He is an adult and free to make personal choices, but the party cannot suffer because of that.”
He aimed to draw a clear line between Tej Pratap’s behavior and RJD’s political identity. This effort became more significant as the party gears up for a string of state elections in the next year.
Lalu Yadav’s Strong Words: ‘No Role in Party or Family’
Lalu made a blunt post on X (formerly Twitter). He stated that Tej Pratap’s actions had undermined the values of the RJD. “Ignoring moral values in personal life weakens our collective struggle for social justice. His behavior is incompatible with our family’s traditions,” he wrote. “He is removed from both the party and the family, effective immediately.”
Lalu’s post marked the culmination of growing tensions within the Yadav family. The family was once seen as the unshakable core of the RJD. Political observers say the public fallout may erode the party’s moral authority. This is especially true among its traditional support base of Yadavs and Muslims.
Marital Controversy Rekindles Political Backlash
Tej Pratap’s personal life has long been mired in controversy. His marriage to Aishwarya Rai in 2018—touted as a political alliance between powerful families—quickly devolved into public scandal. Aishwarya accused him and his family of harassment and domestic abuse, while Tej Pratap accused her of extortion and interference.
The case became a flashpoint in Bihar politics. Her father, Chandrika Roy, resigned from the RJD. He joined forces with Nitish Kumar’s JD(U). Chandrika Roy vowed to fight legally and politically for his daughter. The ongoing court battle continues to draw attention, with both parties leveling fresh accusations.
Political Fallout: A Party at Crossroads
The expulsion of a high-profile family member has left the RJD exposed to criticism and internal dissent. Party insiders fear the timing couldn’t be worse. Opposition unity talks gain momentum ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. Tejashwi has maintained a clean image. He has also emerged as a national opposition face. However, the family drama threatens to distract from the party’s core message of social justice and development.
Analysts believe the move to expel Tej Pratap may be intended to send a strong signal about discipline and accountability. However, it could also trigger fragmentation if loyalists rally behind the ousted leader.
What Lies Ahead for Tej Pratap—and the RJD
Tej Pratap, now politically isolated, has yet to announce his next move. Whether he chooses to launch his own political outfit or fade from public life remains unclear. His unpredictable behavior in the past—including bizarre public appearances, spiritual declarations, and political stunts—has often embarrassed the party leadership.
For the RJD, the challenge now is twofold: defending its internal cohesion and reinforcing public trust. The patriarch enforces strict discipline. The future leader doubles down on focus. The party may attempt to turn the crisis into an opportunity. Only time will tell whether it will emerge stronger or further divided.
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