Tej Pratap Yadav Breaks Ties with Brother Tejashwi: "Relationship Is Over Forever" | Bihar Political Drama

Tej Pratap Yadav speaks to NDTV during a Bihar campaign stop

Patna:

Tej Pratap Yadav, the estranged son of Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Yadav, has expressed his determination to forge his own political identity separate from his younger brother, Tejashwi Yadav.

"He was respectful and caring up to a certain point. People live and die for respect, and no one compromises with it," the elder Yadav told NDTV while campaigning in Bihar for his newly formed party, Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD).

"Regardless of our past, I have chosen a new path independently. I will never return to RJD until my final breath," he declared. "My relationship with my brother is permanently severed. Tejashwi ji visited Mahua while I went to Raghopur. I have fulfilled my responsibilities and owe him nothing further," he added.

Tej Pratap Yadav affirmed that his parents, Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi, continue to bless him, as parents naturally wish the best for their children.

"I maintain separate relationships with my family members and in politics. Each exists in its own sphere," Tej Pratap Yadav explained.

He sparked political speculation on Friday when observers spotted him conversing with actor and BJP MP Ravi Kishan at Patna airport.

"All options are open," he responded when questioned about potential post-election alliances.

BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo later downplayed the encounter as a "routine interaction" between political figures. "During campaigns, leaders frequently meet at airports, public spaces, or street corners. Drawing conclusions from such casual encounters is unusual. Meetings between central and state leaders are common occurrences that shouldn't be overanalyzed," Deo stated.

Nevertheless, RJD circles speculate that Tej Pratap Yadav might form alliances with any party except the RJD after elections, contingent on his JJD securing a substantial number of seats.

In May, Tej Pratap Yadav was disowned by his family and removed from the RJD after a Facebook post revealed his 12-year relationship with a woman. He claimed his account had been compromised.

Following his family exile, he established the JJD. Since then, he has worked to create an identity distinct from his younger brother, positioning himself as the leader of a new political entity and potential coalition-builder rather than merely claiming his family's legacy.

Once viewed primarily as a leader with family connections, he now presents himself as a disinherited successor fighting for recognition.

The second phase of voting is scheduled for November 11, with counting to follow three days later.