Patna, July 5 — Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad was re-elected national president of the party he founded nearly three decades ago, reaffirming his support for son Tejashwi Yadav as the party’s face in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
The 78-year-old leader, visibly frail but determined, addressed RJD’s national council after his re-election on the party’s 28th anniversary on Saturday.
“A survey is under way to pick up the candidates from among you people. I will take a final decision in consultation with Tejashwi,” Lalu told party workers gathered from across the country.
Passing the mantle formally to his 36-year-old son, Lalu urged party cadres to rally behind Tejashwi. “I have passed over the mantle to Tejashwi and call upon you all to put every ounce of your efforts into ensuring that he wins the elections,” he declared.
The RJD patriarch praised Tejashwi’s dedication, saying, “I keep getting feedback from him on a regular basis. He is always on the move, travelling to the farthest corners of the state. Many times I come to know of his tours only upon return.”
Reflecting on his own health challenges, Lalu expressed gratitude to his wife, former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi. “I am grateful to her for being a pillar of support. She handled everything when I was not available. Of late, my health has been precarious, and she is the one who looks after me,” he said.
Despite health concerns, Lalu reassured party workers of his commitment. “I will not let the party down. I am there to do whatever is needed for my workers, without a care for my own well-being,” he said, speaking from his chair in a subdued voice.
The gathering saw participation from delegates across India, including M V Shreyams Kumar, who heads the RJD’s Kerala unit. Lalu called on party colleagues outside Bihar to strengthen the RJD as the state heads into elections later this year.
Bihar is expected to go to polls towards the end of 2025, setting the stage for a key political battle in which the RJD hopes to consolidate its position under Tejashwi’s leadership.
