In a fresh political move, Janshakti Janta Dal (JJD) chief Tej Pratap Yadav on Sunday renewed his push for the Bharat Ratna to be awarded to his father and former Bihar chief minister, Lalu Prasad Yadav. He announced his intention to formally write to the Government of India to press for the demand.
Formal Demand for the Highest Civilian Honour
Speaking to reporters, Tej Pratap Yadav was unequivocal in his stance. "He should indeed be given Bharat Ratna. What is the problem? I will also write a letter to the Govt of India, on behalf of JJD, for the Bharat Ratna," he stated. This public reiteration adds momentum to a campaign that has gained traction within certain political circles in Bihar.
Backing Sister's Stance and Invitations for Bhoj
His remarks followed his support for a social media post made by his sister, Rohini Acharya, a day earlier. When asked about her comments, Yadav said, "What she has tweeted is correct. I support her tweet...Everyone knows who she is talking about. I need not say it aloud." He chose not to elaborate further on the subject.
Shifting to a lighter topic, when questioned about whether Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar would receive an invitation to his traditional 'choora-dahi bhoj', Yadav displayed an inclusive approach. "I will go everywhere. Why are you restless? I will invite you as well. I am inviting everyone," he told the media.
Comment on Somnath and the Political Context
Tej Pratap Yadav also commented on the recent Somnath Swabhiman Parv, expressing his approval. "It is good that the temple has been reconstructed. I am also going to construct a Shiv temple very soon," he shared.
This renewed demand for the Bharat Ratna for the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) patriarch comes amid significant political chatter surrounding the country's highest civilian award. The discourse was ignited following the posthumous conferment of the honour in 2024 on several eminent personalities, including:
- Former prime ministers P V Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh
- Renowned agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan
- Former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur
The awards to Thakur and others have seemingly spurred similar demands from various political quarters, with the Yadav family now adding its voice to the call for recognition of Lalu Prasad Yadav's political legacy.
