Lalu Prasad Yadav Expels Son Tej Pratap from RJD and Family Citing Irresponsible Behavior and Breach of Values
In a dramatic and unprecedented move that has sent ripples through Bihar’s political landscape, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav on Sunday announced the expulsion of his elder son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from both the party and the family.
The decision comes at a crucial time, just months ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, where Lalu’s younger son, Tejashwi Yadav, is spearheading the party’s electoral campaign.
Lalu’s Strong Statement on Tej Pratap’s Conduct
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the veteran politician posted a strongly worded message, condemning Tej Pratap’s recent actions and behavior, which he said violated the moral and cultural fabric of their family and the party’s ideological foundation.
“Ignoring moral values in personal life weakens our collective struggle for social justice. The activities, public conduct, and irresponsible behaviour of my eldest son are not in accordance with our family values and traditions,” wrote Lalu Prasad Yadav.
“In view of these circumstances, I hereby expel him from the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the family. With immediate effect, he shall have no role, responsibility, or association of any kind with either the party or the family. His expulsion from the party is for a period of six years,” the RJD chief stated.
Lalu further remarked that Tej Pratap is mature enough to understand the consequences of his actions and must now navigate life independently, without any support or endorsement from the family.
He called upon those associated with Tej Pratap to assess their involvement and act as they see fit.
“He is capable of seeing right from wrong and recognizing the merit or demerit of his choices. Those who are connected to him personally or professionally should make their own decisions accordingly,” Lalu added.
He reiterated his long-standing belief in transparency and accountability in public life, asserting that moral integrity in personal affairs reflects directly on one’s role in social and political leadership.
“I have always advocated the importance of public shame in public life when moral lines are crossed. Many responsible members of my family have upheld this principle and carried it forward in their public roles,” he concluded.
The Hindi version of his post was also shared on his official handle, emphasizing the gravity of the decision and appealing to the public to understand the ethical reasoning behind it.
Social Media Controversy Triggers Fallout
This announcement follows closely on the heels of a controversial social media post that appeared on Tej Pratap Yadav’s Facebook profile on Saturday.
The post featured a photograph of Tej Pratap with a woman, accompanied by a caption suggesting that they had been in a romantic relationship for over 12 years. The message, which quickly went viral, led to widespread speculation and intense media scrutiny.
However, the post was subsequently deleted, and Tej Pratap issued a public clarification via his X handle, claiming that his social media accounts had been hacked.
“My social media platforms have been compromised. Edited pictures and misleading content are being circulated with the intention to harass and defame me and my family. I appeal to all my supporters, well-wishers, and the public to remain alert and not fall for these baseless rumours,” he stated.
Despite his defense, the damage appeared to have been done, and the senior Yadav’s decision to disown his son from both the political party and the family indicates the matter has escalated far beyond a simple social media mishap.
Political Implications
The timing of the fallout is particularly significant, as RJD gears up for a fierce electoral battle in Bihar. The party is currently being fronted by Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu’s younger son and political heir, who previously served as the Deputy Chief Minister and remains the face of the party’s current generation.
Tej Pratap, who once held the post of Health Minister in the Bihar government, has been known for his erratic public appearances and controversial statements, often placing the party in uncomfortable positions.
His strained relationship with his brother Tejashwi and erratic behaviour have been the subject of political gossip and media attention for years.
Now, with this formal separation, Lalu Prasad Yadav appears to have drawn a clear line between party discipline, family legacy, and individual accountability, possibly to preserve the party’s public image and reinforce the leadership of Tejashwi ahead of elections.
