In his&nbsp;first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, and reconstitution of the Bihar government with BJP-led NDA, the outgoing&nbsp;deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months..."

Yadav also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'.

Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..."

"I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added.

After days of speculation, JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar resigned as the Chief Minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months. Hours later, Nitish took oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government&nbsp;with BJP's support.

<h2>'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD</h2>

"I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan.

Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops.

Also watch |&nbsp;Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP

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In the Bihar Assembly of 243, the RJD has 79 MLAs; followed by the BJP's 78; the JD(U)'s 45,&nbsp;the Congress'&nbsp;19, the CPI (M-L)'s 12, two each of the CPI(M) and CPI, the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular)'s four seats, and the AIMIM's one, and an Independent legislator.

Nitish Kumar, after parting ways with the BJP in 2022, is credited to have united the opposition parties to jointly take on Prime Minister Modi and the BJP in the 2024 General Elections. The dynamics now stands sharply changed with Nitish back in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance's fold.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, and reconstitution of the Bihar government with BJP-led NDA, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides.

In his first reaction to ally Nitish Kumar's exit from 'INDIA' alliance, and reconstitution of the Bihar government with BJP-led NDA, the outgoing deputy CM of the state Tejashwi Yadav accused Kumar of 'murdering' the hopes of the people by switching sides. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, son of party patriarch Lalu Yadav, told ANI: "Why should we not take credit for the work we have done?... The CM who used to say that it is impossible to give jobs, we gave jobs and showed that it is possible. We brought new policies in tourism, IT, and sports. The work that was done in 17 months could not be done in 17 years (of BJP-JDU rule). We did historic work in the 17 months..." Yadav also hinted at more political developments in the state ahead of the General Elections in 2024 and said that 'the game is yet to begin'. Describing Nitish Kumar as a 'tired CM', Yadav said, "What I say, I do...I can give you in writing that the JDU party will be finished in 2024. The public is with us..." "I want to thank the BJP that it got ready to induct his party (JDU) in their alliance," he added. After days of speculation, JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar resigned as the Chief Minister of Bihar on Sunday (Jan 28). The resignation came within 18 months. Hours later, Nitish took oath as Bihar CM for the ninth time and formed a new state government with BJP's support. 'The situation was not good': Nitish Kumar on breaking ties with RJD "I have resigned as the CM today and have asked the Governor to put an end to this government. Party leaders were giving me advice. I heard what they said and have resigned. The situation was not good. So, we have broken ties," Nitish Kumar told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan. Nitish Kumar has managed to retain his chief ministerial designation despite frequent flip-flops. Also watch | Nitish Kumar stakes claim to form a new government in Bihar with BJP × In the Bihar Assembly of 243, the RJD has 79 MLAs; followed by the BJP's 78; the JD(U)'s 45, the Congress' 19, the CPI (M-L)'s 12, two each of the CPI(M) and CPI, the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular)'s four seats, and the AIMIM's one, and an Independent legislator. Nitish Kumar, after parting ways with the BJP in 2022, is credited to have united the opposition parties to jointly take on Prime Minister Modi and the BJP in the 2024 General Elections. The dynamics now stands sharply changed with Nitish back in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance's fold. (With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar has ‘murdered’ hopes of Bihar by switching sides: Tejashwi Yadav

India's political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has invited trouble after one of its MPs Dayanidhi Maran's video, which the party claims is old, went viral on social media.

In the video, Maran allegedly said that the Hindi-speaking people who hail from the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar construct houses, clean roads and toilets in Tamil Nadu, after learning Tamil.&nbsp;

"Only because they (people here) studied English, today they earn fat salaries in IT companies. They say 'Hindi Hindi'. You know well who build buildings. Those who study only Hindi in Bihar build houses for us in Tamil Nadu, sweep roads and clean toilets," he said in the video that took the internet by storm.

He then went on to cite the example of Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who is a native of Tamil Nadu saying that had he learnt only Hindi language, he would have ended up being employed in the construction sector as a worker.

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I.N.D.I Alliance leader and DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran says Hindi speakers from UP and Bihar come and clean toilets in TN. 
Rahul Gandhi and Nitish Kumar must clarify, if this is the stated position of the Congress and JDU too. 
I.N.D.I Alliance’s divisive agenda is out in full force… <a href="https://t.co/i4wwLbYisW">pic.twitter.com/i4wwLbYisW</a>
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1738828917555757521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's ruling Dravidian party has long championed the study of Tamil and English languages.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hijab-or-no-hijab-in-karnataka-educational-institutes-cm-siddaramaiah-clarifies-his-mysuru-speech-673027">Hijab or no hijab in Karnataka educational institutes? CM Siddaramaiah clarifies his Mysuru speech</a>

<h2>Controversial remarks spark controversy&nbsp;</h2>

Maran's remarks sparked a political row and drew criticism from other political parties.

Condemning the comments made in the video, Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, "This is condemnable. Leaders from other states, irrespective of which party they belong to, should avoid making such remarks. This country is one. We respect people from other states and we expect the same. Such remarks should not be made."

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla took to his official X handle and said in a post that making such derogatory remarks had become a habit of the DMK party.

Many leaders one after the other make such comments and earlier they attacked Sanatan Dharma too, he said.

"But the reason why Congress party and other parties of INDIA alliance are not saying anything is because, perhaps, they are all in it together," he added.

Tamil Nadu BJP Vice-president Naryananan Thirupathy said, though it was an old remark, it shows the 'true colours' of DMK leaders who use abusive, and derogatory language against north Indians.

"It is not a matter of surprise at all. It is happening now, in the present. It has also happened in the past. The DMK will continue it in the future as well," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has invited trouble after one of its MPs Dayanidhi Maran's video, which the party claims is old, went viral on social media.

India's political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has invited trouble after one of its MPs Dayanidhi Maran's video, which the party claims is old, went viral on social media. In the video, Maran allegedly said that the Hindi-speaking people who hail from the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar construct houses, clean roads and toilets in Tamil Nadu, after learning Tamil. "Only because they (people here) studied English, today they earn fat salaries in IT companies. They say 'Hindi Hindi'. You know well who build buildings. Those who study only Hindi in Bihar build houses for us in Tamil Nadu, sweep roads and clean toilets," he said in the video that took the internet by storm. He then went on to cite the example of Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who is a native of Tamil Nadu saying that had he learnt only Hindi language, he would have ended up being employed in the construction sector as a worker. I.N.D.I Alliance leader and DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran says Hindi speakers from UP and Bihar come and clean toilets in TN. Rahul Gandhi and Nitish Kumar must clarify, if this is the stated position of the Congress and JDU too. I.N.D.I Alliance’s divisive agenda is out in full force… pic.twitter.com/i4wwLbYisW — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) December 24, 2023 × Tamil Nadu's ruling Dravidian party has long championed the study of Tamil and English languages. Also read: Hijab or no hijab in Karnataka educational institutes? CM Siddaramaiah clarifies his Mysuru speech Controversial remarks spark controversy Maran's remarks sparked a political row and drew criticism from other political parties. Condemning the comments made in the video, Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, "This is condemnable. Leaders from other states, irrespective of which party they belong to, should avoid making such remarks. This country is one. We respect people from other states and we expect the same. Such remarks should not be made." BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla took to his official X handle and said in a post that making such derogatory remarks had become a habit of the DMK party. Many leaders one after the other make such comments and earlier they attacked Sanatan Dharma too, he said. "But the reason why Congress party and other parties of INDIA alliance are not saying anything is because, perhaps, they are all in it together," he added. Tamil Nadu BJP Vice-president Naryananan Thirupathy said, though it was an old remark, it shows the 'true colours' of DMK leaders who use abusive, and derogatory language against north Indians. "It is not a matter of surprise at all. It is happening now, in the present. It has also happened in the past. The DMK will continue it in the future as well," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: DMK MP sparks political row with ‘Bihar, UP people clean toilets’ remark, Tejashwi Yadav reacts

Bihar elections are the first election in India after months of Covid 19 pandemic. While India has greatly returned to normalcy, the months that went by shook the common man and industry. In retrospect, the sudden lockdown looked poorly planned and executed. The pandemic at many levels exposed the inefficiency of public administration. Indians whether farmers, labourers, students, professionals and businessmen suffered through the health crisis, crippling medical system and slower pace of already slowed down the economy.&nbsp;

For many years Bihar elections have been measured through the prism of caste dynamics. Nitish Kumar for the last 15 years was branded as the father of good governance and architect of caste coalition called -maha Dalits. On the other hand, Lalu Yadav’s RJD failed to enlarge its social base or wipe out the tag of corruption and lawlessness, it earned during its 15 years of rule.&nbsp;

The pandemic came as a political disruptor and changed the rules, of the game of throne in Bihar. While Lalu is in jail, his son Tejashvi made a bold move to make unemployment, jobs and backwardness of Bihar the issue. After 15 years, Nitish Kumar looks like a politically exhausted leader. He failed to communicate any fresh ideas or promises that can capture the imagination of people. Modi’s several rallies had little impact on the discourse. The once exciting jungle raj and Yuvraj diatribe had less impact than expected. Nitish and Modi are suffering from triple engine anti-incumbency. Young Tejashvi has smartly disengaged himself from the discourse trap normally the BJP lays for its opponents and have rather got the ruling partners to give explanations to the people of Bihar.&nbsp;

The election outcome will determine if voters have chosen to reward or punish the Bihar Government for the mismanagement of the pandemic. It will also send a message to the BJP of acceptance or rejection of their work. People of Bihar will decide if they will forgive the Lalu Yadav clan and accept Tejashvi as its leader.&nbsp;

Election results in the second most important state in the Hindi heartland will have a cascading effect on Indian politics. If Modi and JDU win, this will be a huge vindication of Modi lead NDA. It will clearly convey that even the pandemic or the management of the economy have not been able to shake Modi.&nbsp; 
 
Modi will remain the unfazed, Mr Invincible. This victory will also give a boost to the ambitions of the BJP to win West Bengal.&nbsp;

If BJP and JDU lose Bihar, nationally it’s an embarrassment for Modi administration. It will be perceived as an astounding statement on Prime Minister’s governance also the political price for a David Vs Goliath battle will be huge. In a strange coincidence, what’s happened in the US has put Prime Minister Modi on the back foot. He had put his personal capital behind his friend Trump and risked diplomatic norms of engagement by campaigning for Trump. From Pennsylvania to Patna if friends and allies lose, the days ahead will be tough.&nbsp;

Whatever the outcome, the US elections have proved that the most invincible can be replaced. Right-wing politics is not here to stay forever and also rekindled hope in change. The pandemic will have its effect on the elections as it directly affected lives and livelihoods. 11th November is not just a test for tall men like Prime Minister Modi or Nitish Kumar. It may establish Tesjashvi as young and promising leader of Bihar. With what’s happening in India and globally, the excitement and interest in a state election has never been so thrilling. More than RJD, it’s crucial for the BJP and JDU to win this election. Mr Modi has a lot at stake!&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do&nbsp;not represent the views of&nbsp;WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse&nbsp;the views of the writer)

Bihar elections are the first election in India after months of Covid 19 pandemic. While India has greatly returned to normalcy, the months that went by shook the common man and industry.

Bihar elections are the first election in India after months of Covid 19 pandemic. While India has greatly returned to normalcy, the months that went by shook the common man and industry. In retrospect, the sudden lockdown looked poorly planned and executed. The pandemic at many levels exposed the inefficiency of public administration. Indians whether farmers, labourers, students, professionals and businessmen suffered through the health crisis, crippling medical system and slower pace of already slowed down the economy. For many years Bihar elections have been measured through the prism of caste dynamics. Nitish Kumar for the last 15 years was branded as the father of good governance and architect of caste coalition called -maha Dalits. On the other hand, Lalu Yadav’s RJD failed to enlarge its social base or wipe out the tag of corruption and lawlessness, it earned during its 15 years of rule. The pandemic came as a political disruptor and changed the rules, of the game of throne in Bihar. While Lalu is in jail, his son Tejashvi made a bold move to make unemployment, jobs and backwardness of Bihar the issue. After 15 years, Nitish Kumar looks like a politically exhausted leader. He failed to communicate any fresh ideas or promises that can capture the imagination of people. Modi’s several rallies had little impact on the discourse. The once exciting jungle raj and Yuvraj diatribe had less impact than expected. Nitish and Modi are suffering from triple engine anti-incumbency. Young Tejashvi has smartly disengaged himself from the discourse trap normally the BJP lays for its opponents and have rather got the ruling partners to give explanations to the people of Bihar. The election outcome will determine if voters have chosen to reward or punish the Bihar Government for the mismanagement of the pandemic. It will also send a message to the BJP of acceptance or rejection of their work. People of Bihar will decide if they will forgive the Lalu Yadav clan and accept Tejashvi as its leader. Election results in the second most important state in the Hindi heartland will have a cascading effect on Indian politics. If Modi and JDU win, this will be a huge vindication of Modi lead NDA. It will clearly convey that even the pandemic or the management of the economy have not been able to shake Modi. Modi will remain the unfazed, Mr Invincible. This victory will also give a boost to the ambitions of the BJP to win West Bengal. If BJP and JDU lose Bihar, nationally it’s an embarrassment for Modi administration. It will be perceived as an astounding statement on Prime Minister’s governance also the political price for a David Vs Goliath battle will be huge. In a strange coincidence, what’s happened in the US has put Prime Minister Modi on the back foot. He had put his personal capital behind his friend Trump and risked diplomatic norms of engagement by campaigning for Trump. From Pennsylvania to Patna if friends and allies lose, the days ahead will be tough. Whatever the outcome, the US elections have proved that the most invincible can be replaced. Right-wing politics is not here to stay forever and also rekindled hope in change. The pandemic will have its effect on the elections as it directly affected lives and livelihoods. 11th November is not just a test for tall men like Prime Minister Modi or Nitish Kumar. It may establish Tesjashvi as young and promising leader of Bihar. With what’s happening in India and globally, the excitement and interest in a state election has never been so thrilling. More than RJD, it’s crucial for the BJP and JDU to win this election. Mr Modi has a lot at stake! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Why Bihar results are important for India

Alleging foul play in the just-concluded Bihar elections 2020, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday demanded recounting of the postal ballot votes in all those constituencies where they were counted at the end. He wondered how could the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) win 15 extra seats with just a wafer-thin margin of just 0.1 per cent votes.&nbsp;

"The NDA got 37.3 per cent of the total votes, while Mahagathbandan (Grand Alliance) got 37.2 per cent. There is a 0.1 per cent difference. If we convert it into votes then it is a 12,270-vote difference. How can they win 15 seats with just around 12,000 extra votes," Yadav asked, adding that many postal ballot votes were cancelled.

"The postal ballot votes are given by service people. Our candidates had asked in writing why many of them were cancelled. On whose order were the postal ballots counted at the end? These must have been recorded and sealed. We demand recounting of postal ballot votes as we were defeated by very fewer margins," he said, quoting the rule for the counting of the postal-ballot votes.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-run-parties-biggest-threat-to-indias-democracy-pm-modi-after-bihar-win-342464">Family-run parties biggest threat to India's democracy: PM Modi after Bihar win</a> 
 
"The postal-ballot votes need to be counted first and videography of the whole process needs to be done. You have to satisfy all the candidates," he said.

He went on to question Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accusing him of forming the government from the backdoor.&nbsp;

"We lost 20 seats by a wafer-thin margin. In many constituencies, as many as 900 postal ballots were invalidated. I ask the chief minister, who is forming the government from the backdoor, why the postal votes were counted later," he said, adding they would collect proof after the recordings of the vote-counting procedure are out.

In Bihar elections 2020, of the 243 seats, 125 have gone in favour of the ruling coalition NDA, headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and 110 to the rival Grand Alliance. The Rashtriya Janata Dal emerged as the single-largest party in the House with 75 seats.

Alleging foul play in the just-concluded Bihar elections 2020, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday demanded recounting of the postal ballot votes in all those constituencies where they were counted at the end.

Alleging foul play in the just-concluded Bihar elections 2020, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday demanded recounting of the postal ballot votes in all those constituencies where they were counted at the end. He wondered how could the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) win 15 extra seats with just a wafer-thin margin of just 0.1 per cent votes. "The NDA got 37.3 per cent of the total votes, while Mahagathbandan (Grand Alliance) got 37.2 per cent. There is a 0.1 per cent difference. If we convert it into votes then it is a 12,270-vote difference. How can they win 15 seats with just around 12,000 extra votes," Yadav asked, adding that many postal ballot votes were cancelled. "The postal ballot votes are given by service people. Our candidates had asked in writing why many of them were cancelled. On whose order were the postal ballots counted at the end? These must have been recorded and sealed. We demand recounting of postal ballot votes as we were defeated by very fewer margins," he said, quoting the rule for the counting of the postal-ballot votes. Also Read | Family-run parties biggest threat to India's democracy: PM Modi after Bihar win "The postal-ballot votes need to be counted first and videography of the whole process needs to be done. You have to satisfy all the candidates," he said. He went on to question Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accusing him of forming the government from the backdoor. "We lost 20 seats by a wafer-thin margin. In many constituencies, as many as 900 postal ballots were invalidated. I ask the chief minister, who is forming the government from the backdoor, why the postal votes were counted later," he said, adding they would collect proof after the recordings of the vote-counting procedure are out. In Bihar elections 2020, of the 243 seats, 125 have gone in favour of the ruling coalition NDA, headed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and 110 to the rival Grand Alliance. The Rashtriya Janata Dal emerged as the single-largest party in the House with 75 seats.

Bihar Elections: Tejashwi Yadav, leader of single-largest party RJD, demands recount

BJP's Bihar president Sanjay Jaiswal said today that National Democratic Alliance(NDA) set to form government in Bihar after won 121 seats and was leading in 4 seats.

<a href="Also Read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna">Also Read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna</a>

According to reports, the NDA had garnered over 53 per cent votes while LJP has managed to win less than six per cent votes even as HAM and VIP have become part of the NDA.

As the results poured in on Tuesday,&nbsp; Union Home Minister Amit Shah Tuesday called up chief minister Nitish Kumar. India's home minister had already declared that Nitish would retain his position irrespective of the seats won by the two parties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-polls-trends-indicate-bjp-set-to-emerge-as-single-largest-party-342101">Also Read:&nbsp;Trends indicate BJP set to emerge as single-largest party</a>

The Congress, however, failed to impress as it continued to lose ground in successive polls from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The party dropped from 27 seats five years ago to nearly 20 according to the latest trends with the RJD-led Grand Alliance lagging behind the BJP-led NDA alliance even as it contested in 70 seats.

Congress blamed its defeat on the EVMs asserting that machines could be hacked.

"If the direction of satellites to Mars and Moon can be controlled from the earth, then why can't EVM be hacked, Udit Raj, Congress national spokesperson, said.

The Left fared better than expected winning seven seats and leading in several others as results were being declared.

In counting late night, CPI(ML) had won six out of the 19 seats it had contested and was leading in six seats.

BJP's Bihar president Sanjay Jaiswal said today that National Democratic Alliance(NDA) set to form government in Bihar after won 121 seats and was leading in 4 seats.

BJP's Bihar president Sanjay Jaiswal said today that National Democratic Alliance(NDA) set to form government in Bihar after won 121 seats and was leading in 4 seats. Also Read: NDA forges ahead of Grand Alliance in Bihar Patna According to reports, the NDA had garnered over 53 per cent votes while LJP has managed to win less than six per cent votes even as HAM and VIP have become part of the NDA. As the results poured in on Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah Tuesday called up chief minister Nitish Kumar. India's home minister had already declared that Nitish would retain his position irrespective of the seats won by the two parties. Also Read: Trends indicate BJP set to emerge as single-largest party The Congress, however, failed to impress as it continued to lose ground in successive polls from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The party dropped from 27 seats five years ago to nearly 20 according to the latest trends with the RJD-led Grand Alliance lagging behind the BJP-led NDA alliance even as it contested in 70 seats. Congress blamed its defeat on the EVMs asserting that machines could be hacked. "If the direction of satellites to Mars and Moon can be controlled from the earth, then why can't EVM be hacked, Udit Raj, Congress national spokesperson, said. The Left fared better than expected winning seven seats and leading in several others as results were being declared. In counting late night, CPI(ML) had won six out of the 19 seats it had contested and was leading in six seats.

NDA set to form government in Bihar: Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided.&nbsp;

The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-2020-first-phase-voter-turnout-over-54-amid-peaceful-polling-338643">Bihar elections 2020: First phase voter turnout over 54% amid peaceful polling</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The tightly-contested election is India's first amid the pandemic and held in three phases with the first phase summed up on October 27 the final phase scheduled to vote on November 7.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-election-2020-technical-snag-glitches-in-75-evms-hassle-voters-in-phase-1-polling-338531">Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters on Tuesday to vote in large numbers and follow safety measures while voting to avoid contracting the deadly virus.&nbsp;

"Make this festival of democracy successful by voting in large numbers. During the exercise, apart from maintaining social distancing, also wear a mask," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Grand alliance's (Mahagathbandhan) chief ministerial face and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav asked voters to vote for a developed Bihar

"A change is necessary for building a new Bihar in a new era," the RJD leader tweeted.&nbsp;

Several key players will be participating in this phase, which includes Tejashwi himself, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav, four other state ministers and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha's son Luv Sinha, among others.&nbsp;

The voter turnout was more than 55 per cent in the first phase, which is marginally better than the figures in 2015 despite the pandemic.&nbsp;

The results of the election will be announced on November 10.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided. The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms.

Polling began of the second phase of assembly election in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Tuesday where the fate of 94 seats will be decided. The voting started at 7 am IST and the timings have been extended for an hour to conclude at 6 pm, giving the last 60 minutes to coronavirus patients and people who were not allowed to vote earlier due to Covid-19 symptoms. Also read | Bihar elections 2020: First phase voter turnout over 54% amid peaceful polling The tightly-contested election is India's first amid the pandemic and held in three phases with the first phase summed up on October 27 the final phase scheduled to vote on November 7. Also read | Bihar Election 2020: Technical snag, glitches in 75 EVMs hassle voters in phase 1 polling Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters on Tuesday to vote in large numbers and follow safety measures while voting to avoid contracting the deadly virus. "Make this festival of democracy successful by voting in large numbers. During the exercise, apart from maintaining social distancing, also wear a mask," he tweeted. Grand alliance's (Mahagathbandhan) chief ministerial face and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav asked voters to vote for a developed Bihar "A change is necessary for building a new Bihar in a new era," the RJD leader tweeted. Several key players will be participating in this phase, which includes Tejashwi himself, his brother Tej Pratap Yadav, four other state ministers and Congress leader Shatrughan Sinha's son Luv Sinha, among others. The voter turnout was more than 55 per cent in the first phase, which is marginally better than the figures in 2015 despite the pandemic. The results of the election will be announced on November 10.

Bihar Assembly election 2020: Voting for second phase begins

The second phase of Bihar assembly polls ended with 53.51 per cent voting in 94 constituencies on Tuesday evening. &nbsp;

The figure was likely to go up as voting continued beyond schedule in several places, the Election Commission said.

The combined voter turnout in the two phases was recorded at 53.79 per cent till 5 PM, the Commission said.

In the corresponding constituencies which went to poll in the 2015 assembly polls, the turnout was 55.35 per cent, the EC said.

The 94 constituencies of Bihar assembly went to poll in the second phase of elections which will decide the electoral fate of RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan's chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav and more than 1,450 other candidates.

(With inputs from agencies)

The second phase of Bihar assembly polls ended with 53.51 per cent voting in 94 constituencies on Tuesday evening. The figure was likely to go up as voting continued beyond schedule in several places, the Election Commission said.

The second phase of Bihar assembly polls ended with 53.51 per cent voting in 94 constituencies on Tuesday evening. The figure was likely to go up as voting continued beyond schedule in several places, the Election Commission said. The combined voter turnout in the two phases was recorded at 53.79 per cent till 5 PM, the Commission said. In the corresponding constituencies which went to poll in the 2015 assembly polls, the turnout was 55.35 per cent, the EC said. The 94 constituencies of Bihar assembly went to poll in the second phase of elections which will decide the electoral fate of RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan's chief ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav and more than 1,450 other candidates. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Elections 2020: 53.51% polling recorded in the second phase, says Election Commission

Friday’s rumble of public rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal’s (RJD) chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav in Bihar was handsomely won by the young scion of the Lalu Prasad dynasty, as he kept to his script and charmed the crowd.

On one hand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his speech reminding people of the "jungle raj" during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s regime, Tejashwi Yadav’s speech was on unemployment, industrialisation and infrastructure development in Bihar. Modi tried to remind the electorate of the flip side of the social justice politics, whereas Tejashwi Yadav remained focused on Nitish Kumar.

What is interesting is that he had made a strong departure from the social justice politics of his father Lalu Prasad Yadav. He did not mention backward forward political issue in his speech. In fact, it was peppered with the idea of government for all.

Throughout the speech, he made it a point to say that as chief minister, he would ensure government jobs to 10 lakh people. To me, it is like another political jumla but the one which crowd seems to be lapping up.

His speech is a significant departure from what made RJD a big party in Bihar. He does not have the baggage of his father and friends who for 15 years made life hell for people of certain castes. This makes it difficult for BJP-JDU combine to pin down Tejashwi who hammered down the issue of development in speech, a plank which had belonged to Nitish Kumar.

It is for the first time in so many years that Nitish Kumar -- as brand ambassador of clean politics in Bihar -- is on a weak wicket because of perceived inability to develop Bihar. Tejashwi also teased Nitish Kumar for his inability to get a better deal for Bihar.

PM Modi, on the other hand, focussed on welfare schemes and delivery of goods and services. He even made a point to speak about the Buddhist circuit, but the crowd did not respond which is not expected from Narendra Modi’s rallies. &nbsp;

On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi’s primary attack remained on Modi on the issue of China and as usual Adani and Ambani angle. It also did not cut much ice with crowd either. &nbsp;

The speech came across as lazy and did not have the required impact. &nbsp;

What is even more interesting in this election is that unlike the last one, BJP-JDU campaign is not celebrating Nitish Kumar which the 2015 election campaign of 'mahagathbandhan' was about.&nbsp;

BJP-JDU might be focussed on the word "samikaran", but it lacks the buzz. It must be given to Tejashwi that he has connected with the crowd and even if the verdict is to go other side, he will emerge as one of the main leaders in post JP landscape of Bihar politics.

Friday’s rumble of public rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal’s (RJD) chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav in Bihar was handsomely won by the young scion of the Lalu Prasad dynasty, as he kept to his script and charmed the crowd.

Friday’s rumble of public rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dal’s (RJD) chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav in Bihar was handsomely won by the young scion of the Lalu Prasad dynasty, as he kept to his script and charmed the crowd. On one hand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his speech reminding people of the "jungle raj" during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s regime, Tejashwi Yadav’s speech was on unemployment, industrialisation and infrastructure development in Bihar. Modi tried to remind the electorate of the flip side of the social justice politics, whereas Tejashwi Yadav remained focused on Nitish Kumar. What is interesting is that he had made a strong departure from the social justice politics of his father Lalu Prasad Yadav. He did not mention backward forward political issue in his speech. In fact, it was peppered with the idea of government for all. Throughout the speech, he made it a point to say that as chief minister, he would ensure government jobs to 10 lakh people. To me, it is like another political jumla but the one which crowd seems to be lapping up. His speech is a significant departure from what made RJD a big party in Bihar. He does not have the baggage of his father and friends who for 15 years made life hell for people of certain castes. This makes it difficult for BJP-JDU combine to pin down Tejashwi who hammered down the issue of development in speech, a plank which had belonged to Nitish Kumar. It is for the first time in so many years that Nitish Kumar -- as brand ambassador of clean politics in Bihar -- is on a weak wicket because of perceived inability to develop Bihar. Tejashwi also teased Nitish Kumar for his inability to get a better deal for Bihar. PM Modi, on the other hand, focussed on welfare schemes and delivery of goods and services. He even made a point to speak about the Buddhist circuit, but the crowd did not respond which is not expected from Narendra Modi’s rallies. On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi’s primary attack remained on Modi on the issue of China and as usual Adani and Ambani angle. It also did not cut much ice with crowd either. The speech came across as lazy and did not have the required impact. What is even more interesting in this election is that unlike the last one, BJP-JDU campaign is not celebrating Nitish Kumar which the 2015 election campaign of 'mahagathbandhan' was about. BJP-JDU might be focussed on the word "samikaran", but it lacks the buzz. It must be given to Tejashwi that he has connected with the crowd and even if the verdict is to go other side, he will emerge as one of the main leaders in post JP landscape of Bihar politics.

A new star - Tejashwi Yadav

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh&nbsp;and the Indian prime minister on&nbsp;why his party wasn't invited for the meeting.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>, Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for tomorrow's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllPartyMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllPartyMeet</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GalwanValley?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GalwanValley</a>. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion. Because our party <a href="https://twitter.com/RJDforIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RJDforIndia</a> hasn't received any message so far.
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1273674561783910403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for the all-party meet on Galwan Valley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion because our party&nbsp;hasn't received any message so far," Tejashwi Yadav said in a tweet.

In a tweet, Sanjay Singh, AAP leader, also questioned the government saying that AAP has a government in Delhi and is the main opposition in Punjab. But on a vital subject, AAP's views are not needed.

Leaders from more than 15 political parties will be joining the Indian prime minister via video conference at around 5pm later today.

Ahead of the all-party meet, defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to major party leaders and briefed them on the situation at the border and the standoff with China.

The largest Opposition party, Congress has already offered to stand with the army and the Union government during the&nbsp;crisis.

Other party leaders are also expected to offer support to the prime minister over the issue. It is the first all-party meet called by PM Modi since tensions erupted at the border with China along the LAC&nbsp;in April.

Congress, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, Trinamool Congress, JDU, DMK, BSP and CPM are among those who have been invited to the meeting.

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian prime minister on why his party wasn't invited for the meeting.

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian prime minister on why his party wasn't invited for the meeting. Dear @DefenceMinIndia @PMOIndia, Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for tomorrow's #AllPartyMeet on #GalwanValley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion. Because our party @RJDforIndia hasn't received any message so far. — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 18, 2020 × "Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for the all-party meet on Galwan Valley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion because our party hasn't received any message so far," Tejashwi Yadav said in a tweet. In a tweet, Sanjay Singh, AAP leader, also questioned the government saying that AAP has a government in Delhi and is the main opposition in Punjab. But on a vital subject, AAP's views are not needed. Leaders from more than 15 political parties will be joining the Indian prime minister via video conference at around 5pm later today. Ahead of the all-party meet, defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to major party leaders and briefed them on the situation at the border and the standoff with China. The largest Opposition party, Congress has already offered to stand with the army and the Union government during the crisis. Other party leaders are also expected to offer support to the prime minister over the issue. It is the first all-party meet called by PM Modi since tensions erupted at the border with China along the LAC in April. Congress, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, Trinamool Congress, JDU, DMK, BSP and CPM are among those who have been invited to the meeting.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, AAP express displeasure over not being invited for PM Modi's all-party meet on China

While observing Garib Adhikaar Diwas in protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah's virtual rally, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said that the double engine government has tortured poor people and the state government is only focused towards satisfying its hunger for power.

Earlier today, RJD leaders Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav clanged utensils to protest against Amit Shah's virtual rally to be held today and over the situation of migrant workers.

"Not only RJD but Bihar's labourers, farmers, unemployed people and others are clanging utensils in protest. The double engine government has tortured them mentally, physically and financially. We believe that poor people are an empty stomach, people are dying of hunger because of the governments," said Yadav.

He further asserted that the current government is only focused on satisfying their hunger for power. "Around 12 crore people across the country are unemployed. This government wants to satisfy their hunger for power rather than helping the poor.

RJD believes that BJP is the country's first such party who will celebrate the death of the poor. Seven crore youth in Bihar are unemployed," said Yadav.

"I want to ask Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar, are Bihar's migrants and poor being treated as thieves if they want to return to their homes. They are facing physical torture and financial constrain. Who is responsible for this situation? Nitish Kumar should at least apologise to Bihar's labourers and poor people. If he can't respect poor people, he should not disrespect them either," he added.

While observing Garib Adhikaar Diwas in protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah's virtual rally, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said that the double engine government has tortured poor people and the state government is only focused towards satisfying its hunger for power.

While observing Garib Adhikaar Diwas in protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah's virtual rally, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said that the double engine government has tortured poor people and the state government is only focused towards satisfying its hunger for power. Earlier today, RJD leaders Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav clanged utensils to protest against Amit Shah's virtual rally to be held today and over the situation of migrant workers. "Not only RJD but Bihar's labourers, farmers, unemployed people and others are clanging utensils in protest. The double engine government has tortured them mentally, physically and financially. We believe that poor people are an empty stomach, people are dying of hunger because of the governments," said Yadav. He further asserted that the current government is only focused on satisfying their hunger for power. "Around 12 crore people across the country are unemployed. This government wants to satisfy their hunger for power rather than helping the poor. RJD believes that BJP is the country's first such party who will celebrate the death of the poor. Seven crore youth in Bihar are unemployed," said Yadav. "I want to ask Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar, are Bihar's migrants and poor being treated as thieves if they want to return to their homes. They are facing physical torture and financial constrain. Who is responsible for this situation? Nitish Kumar should at least apologise to Bihar's labourers and poor people. If he can't respect poor people, he should not disrespect them either," he added.

RJD observes Garib Adhikaar Diwas; Tejashwi Yadav slams ''double engine govt'' for ''torturing'' poor

Amid public outcry over hefty provisions in new Motor Vehicles Act, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Friday said that there is a need to create more awareness among people and bring change in the attitude of policemen.

"If anyone is breaking the rule then he should be fined. But the attitude (of policemen) should not be like a goon. There is a need to make people understand in a good manner. Just by fining people won't work. There is a need to aware people to abide by the rules," he told reporters.

After the heavy fines were introduced in the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019, hefty challans have been levied on many violators for not abiding by the traffic rules. 
&nbsp;

Amid public outcry over hefty provisions in new Motor Vehicles Act, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Friday said that there is a need to create more awareness among people and bring change in the attitude of policemen.

Amid public outcry over hefty provisions in new Motor Vehicles Act, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Friday said that there is a need to create more awareness among people and bring change in the attitude of policemen. "If anyone is breaking the rule then he should be fined. But the attitude (of policemen) should not be like a goon. There is a need to make people understand in a good manner. Just by fining people won't work. There is a need to aware people to abide by the rules," he told reporters. After the heavy fines were introduced in the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019, hefty challans have been levied on many violators for not abiding by the traffic rules.

Tejashwi Yadav calls for creating more awareness on Motor Vehicle act

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Thursday said that party leader Tejashwi Yadav will continue as the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly.

RJD spokesperson Bhai Virendra said: "Tejashwi is not a leader who will leave the responsibility of leading the opposition midway."

"If Tejashwi resigns, all party legislators will resign along with him," he added.

The demands for Tejashwi Yadav's resignation have been growing after the party's debacle in the state Assembly and his absence from the state. Leaders of ally Congress and Opposition parties have been demanding his resignation on moral grounds taking responsibility for his party's defeat.

In a series of tweets on Saturday, Yadav assured the people of Bihar that "he was very much there" and was being treated for a ligament and ACL injury.

"We are accountable to people who look for a socialist-secular and social justice alternative in us and wish to assure that we are very much here and the fight is on...Recent developments helped me study, scrutinize, analyse and appraise the things in a different way, " he tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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We are accountable to people who look for a socialist-secular and social justice alternative in us and wish to assure that we are very much here and the fight is on...Recent developments helped me study, scrutinize, analyse and appraise the things in a different way.
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1144819570500235264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

He further said that RJD will fight with a renewed commitment on everyday life issues of the poor.

"Since it's birth RJD has been at the centre of poor peoples’ struggle and that position is not lost only because of an electoral defeat. Wish to assure people of Bihar as well as our spirited cadre, we are going to fight with renewed commitment on everyday life issues of poor," he tweeted. 
 
&nbsp;

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Since its birth RJD has been at the centre of poor peoples’ struggle and that position is not lost only because of an electoral defeat. Wish to assure people of Bihar as well as our spirited cadre, we are going to fight with renewed commitment on everyday life issues of poor.
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1144823681396269057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Thursday said that party leader Tejashwi Yadav will continue as the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly. RJD spokesperson Bhai Virendra said: "Tejashwi is not a leader who will leave the responsibility of leading the opposition midway.

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Thursday said that party leader Tejashwi Yadav will continue as the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly. RJD spokesperson Bhai Virendra said: "Tejashwi is not a leader who will leave the responsibility of leading the opposition midway." "If Tejashwi resigns, all party legislators will resign along with him," he added. The demands for Tejashwi Yadav's resignation have been growing after the party's debacle in the state Assembly and his absence from the state. Leaders of ally Congress and Opposition parties have been demanding his resignation on moral grounds taking responsibility for his party's defeat. In a series of tweets on Saturday, Yadav assured the people of Bihar that "he was very much there" and was being treated for a ligament and ACL injury. "We are accountable to people who look for a socialist-secular and social justice alternative in us and wish to assure that we are very much here and the fight is on...Recent developments helped me study, scrutinize, analyse and appraise the things in a different way, " he tweeted. We are accountable to people who look for a socialist-secular and social justice alternative in us and wish to assure that we are very much here and the fight is on...Recent developments helped me study, scrutinize, analyse and appraise the things in a different way. — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 29, 2019 × He further said that RJD will fight with a renewed commitment on everyday life issues of the poor. "Since it's birth RJD has been at the centre of poor peoples’ struggle and that position is not lost only because of an electoral defeat. Wish to assure people of Bihar as well as our spirited cadre, we are going to fight with renewed commitment on everyday life issues of poor," he tweeted. Since its birth RJD has been at the centre of poor peoples’ struggle and that position is not lost only because of an electoral defeat. Wish to assure people of Bihar as well as our spirited cadre, we are going to fight with renewed commitment on everyday life issues of poor. — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 29, 2019 ×

Tejashwi Yadav will not leave responsibility of leading opposition midway: RJD

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said he will raise the issue of deaths due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the state Assembly on Monday.

"I will ask questions on crime and health issues in state Assembly," Yadav told reporters here.

When asked about his opponents'&nbsp;criticism over his "disappearance" post the Lok Sabha elections, Tejashwi, while rubbishing the comments, said he has already clarified his stance.

"I have already cleared my position with a tweet. They have nothing else to talk about," he said.

After his month-long absence from the public eye, Tejashwi had on June 28 said he was undergoing treatment for a ligament and ACL injury.

"Friends! For the last few weeks I was busy undergoing treatment for my long-delayed ligament &amp; ACL injury. However, I'm amused to see political opponents, as well as a section of media, cooking up spicy stories," Yadav had tweeted.

"Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers, leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament and that is why PM responded. My Dear Bihar! I am very much here," he had said in another tweet.

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Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers,leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament &amp; that’s why PM responded. My Dear Bihar!I am very much here
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1144822519284658176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Monsoon session of Bihar Assembly started on June 28.&nbsp;

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said he will raise the issue of deaths due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the state Assembly on Monday. "I will ask questions on crime and health issues in state Assembly," Yadav told reporters here.

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said he will raise the issue of deaths due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the state Assembly on Monday. "I will ask questions on crime and health issues in state Assembly," Yadav told reporters here. When asked about his opponents' criticism over his "disappearance" post the Lok Sabha elections, Tejashwi, while rubbishing the comments, said he has already clarified his stance. "I have already cleared my position with a tweet. They have nothing else to talk about," he said. After his month-long absence from the public eye, Tejashwi had on June 28 said he was undergoing treatment for a ligament and ACL injury. "Friends! For the last few weeks I was busy undergoing treatment for my long-delayed ligament & ACL injury. However, I'm amused to see political opponents, as well as a section of media, cooking up spicy stories," Yadav had tweeted. "Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers, leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament and that is why PM responded. My Dear Bihar! I am very much here," he had said in another tweet. Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers,leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament & that’s why PM responded. My Dear Bihar!I am very much here — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 29, 2019 × The Monsoon session of Bihar Assembly started on June 28.

Tejashwi Yadav to discuss encephalitis deaths in Bihar Assembly

In a first, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/flop-show-for-congress-rjd-in-bihar-says-pollsters-nda-to-win-big-219966">Rashtriya Janata Dal</a> (RJD) could not manage to win even a single seat in the 17th Lok Sabha elections which concluded on May 19.

The RJD, led by Lalu Prasad Yadav's son Tejashwi Yadav, fought the election in alliance with the Congress and others. The party, which contested on 20 seats, didn't manage to win even a single seat this election and nose-dived from 27 in 2014 to nil in 2019.

Constituted in 1997, the RJD received the status of the recognised national-level party in 2008. In its first election in 1998, it had won 17 seats in Bihar.

Meanwhile, Congress, which is the part of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-up-numbers-show-mahagathbandhan-a-failed-experiment-221047"> RJD-led mahagathbandhan</a>, only managed to win one seat in Bihar.

The grand old party had fielded contestant on nine seats.

Besides, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) and the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), which contested on five and three seats respectively, also failed to open its account.

The ruling BJP-JDU-LJP alliance in Bihar achieved a resounding victory in the Lok Sabha elections with BJP winning 17 seats, while its allies Janata Dal-United (JDU) getting 16 seats and Ram Vilas Paswan`s Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) winning six seats. In all, the alliance won 37 seats.

Watch:&nbsp;Nitish kumar secures all 17 LS seats in Bihar&nbsp;

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In a first, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) could not manage to win even a single seat in the 17th Lok Sabha elections which concluded on May 19. The RJD, led by Lalu Prasad Yadav's son Tejashwi Yadav, fought the election in alliance with the Congress and others.

In a first, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) could not manage to win even a single seat in the 17th Lok Sabha elections which concluded on May 19. The RJD, led by Lalu Prasad Yadav's son Tejashwi Yadav, fought the election in alliance with the Congress and others. The party, which contested on 20 seats, didn't manage to win even a single seat this election and nose-dived from 27 in 2014 to nil in 2019. Constituted in 1997, the RJD received the status of the recognised national-level party in 2008. In its first election in 1998, it had won 17 seats in Bihar. Meanwhile, Congress, which is the part of the RJD-led mahagathbandhan, only managed to win one seat in Bihar. The grand old party had fielded contestant on nine seats. Besides, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) and the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), which contested on five and three seats respectively, also failed to open its account. The ruling BJP-JDU-LJP alliance in Bihar achieved a resounding victory in the Lok Sabha elections with BJP winning 17 seats, while its allies Janata Dal-United (JDU) getting 16 seats and Ram Vilas Paswan`s Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) winning six seats. In all, the alliance won 37 seats. Watch: Nitish kumar secures all 17 LS seats in Bihar ×

Lok Sabha election result 2019: In a first, Lalu Prasad Yadav led-RJD draw a blank in Bihar

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Monday termed the exit polls as a trick by the RSS-backed institutions and asked all his supporters to reject it, a day after these polls gave NDA a comfortable majority to return to power at the Centre and not-so-good prospects for the opposition alliance in Bihar.

"Before the exit, the market`s own compulsions are sold in the name of Exit Polls. With the help of Sangh (RSS)-supported institutions and resources, playing with the psychology of the disadvantaged is their old weapon. Dismiss it. We are winning. Keep a close watch on the strong room. The tricks of people expert in playing the dirty games cannot be successful," Yadav`s said in a tweet.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah had a different take on the exit polls."Every single exit poll can`t be wrong! Time to switch off the TV, log out of social media &amp; wait to see if the world is still spinning on its axis on the 23rd," tweeted National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/hope-naidus-excitement-last-till-may-23-shiv-sena-mocks-andhra-cm-220025">TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu </a>on Sunday said that Exit Polls have failed to catch the people`s pulse."Time and again Exit Polls have failed to catch the people`s pulse. Exit polls have proved to be incorrect and far from ground reality in many instances. While undoubtedly TDP government will be formed in AP, we are confident that non-BJP parties will form a non-BJP government at the Centre," tweeted Naidu.

Exit polls on television channels on Sunday projected the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to retain power at the Centre with most of the pollsters giving Prime Minister Modi a clear majority again in the 543-member Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Monday termed the exit polls as a trick by the RSS-backed institutions and asked all his supporters to reject it, a day after these polls gave NDA a comfortable majority to return to power at the Centre and not-so-good prospects for the opposition alliance in Bihar.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Monday termed the exit polls as a trick by the RSS-backed institutions and asked all his supporters to reject it, a day after these polls gave NDA a comfortable majority to return to power at the Centre and not-so-good prospects for the opposition alliance in Bihar. "Before the exit, the market`s own compulsions are sold in the name of Exit Polls. With the help of Sangh (RSS)-supported institutions and resources, playing with the psychology of the disadvantaged is their old weapon. Dismiss it. We are winning. Keep a close watch on the strong room. The tricks of people expert in playing the dirty games cannot be successful," Yadav`s said in a tweet. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah had a different take on the exit polls."Every single exit poll can`t be wrong! Time to switch off the TV, log out of social media & wait to see if the world is still spinning on its axis on the 23rd," tweeted National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday said that Exit Polls have failed to catch the people`s pulse."Time and again Exit Polls have failed to catch the people`s pulse. Exit polls have proved to be incorrect and far from ground reality in many instances. While undoubtedly TDP government will be formed in AP, we are confident that non-BJP parties will form a non-BJP government at the Centre," tweeted Naidu. Exit polls on television channels on Sunday projected the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to retain power at the Centre with most of the pollsters giving Prime Minister Modi a clear majority again in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

Exit poll results are wrong, the opposition is winning: Tejashwi Yadav

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Tuesday accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and BJP of providing "tampered EVMs" at areas where "polling is happening strongly" in the favour of the grand alliance.

"We are noticing that wherever polling is happening strongly in our favour, malfunctioned EVMs are being provided to slow the polling process as per a strategy. This is happening out of fear as we are winning. Just to minimise the winning margin, Nitish Kumar and BJP are doing this," Tejashwi told ANI here.

"They should give in written that they won`t take support from the `mahamilawati` parties which they call us," he added.

When asked about the Muzaffarpur shelter home case, Yadav said, "There is clear involvement of Nitish Kumar and his dear ones in the case. They should at least abide by the Supreme Court`s order. Also, Nitish Kumar should at least apologise for this."

On Monday, the Supreme Court had asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to complete within two weeks the probe into the alleged killing of 11 girls in the aforesaid case in which Brajesh Thakur is the main accused.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi while posting the matter for hearing on June 3 asked the probe agency to complete the investigation in the said time and also submit a status report in the case.

In Bihar, polling for the 40 Lok Sabha seats at stake is being held in all seven phases, with the last phase scheduled for May 19.

Results will be declared on May 23.

The RJD is in alliance with Congress, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP), Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Lok Jantrantrik Dal (LJD) and Vikas Sheel Insaan Party (VIP) in the state.&nbsp;

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Tuesday accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and BJP of providing "tampered EVMs" at areas where "polling is happening strongly" in the favour of the grand alliance.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Tuesday accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and BJP of providing "tampered EVMs" at areas where "polling is happening strongly" in the favour of the grand alliance. "We are noticing that wherever polling is happening strongly in our favour, malfunctioned EVMs are being provided to slow the polling process as per a strategy. This is happening out of fear as we are winning. Just to minimise the winning margin, Nitish Kumar and BJP are doing this," Tejashwi told ANI here. "They should give in written that they won`t take support from the `mahamilawati` parties which they call us," he added. When asked about the Muzaffarpur shelter home case, Yadav said, "There is clear involvement of Nitish Kumar and his dear ones in the case. They should at least abide by the Supreme Court`s order. Also, Nitish Kumar should at least apologise for this." On Monday, the Supreme Court had asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to complete within two weeks the probe into the alleged killing of 11 girls in the aforesaid case in which Brajesh Thakur is the main accused. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi while posting the matter for hearing on June 3 asked the probe agency to complete the investigation in the said time and also submit a status report in the case. In Bihar, polling for the 40 Lok Sabha seats at stake is being held in all seven phases, with the last phase scheduled for May 19. Results will be declared on May 23. The RJD is in alliance with Congress, Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP), Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), Lok Jantrantrik Dal (LJD) and Vikas Sheel Insaan Party (VIP) in the state.

Nitish, BJP providing tampered EVMs in our strongholds, claims Tejashwi

Bihar is expecting "lies and jumlas" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election rally in Araria Lok Sabha constituency, RJD leader and former deputy chief minister<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-best-equipped-to-lead-alliance-against-bjp-tejashwi-yadav-191672&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjjuImhn97hAhWBRY8KHTDaBnkQFggaMAc&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw07f8SlRSX9F7tM8KbHErIX"> Tejashwi Yadav</a> said on Saturday.

Hours before the PM's rally at Forbesganj town in favour of NDA candidates in the state, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-stalin-tejashwi-yadav-backs-rahul-gandhi-as-pm-194883&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjjuImhn97hAhWBRY8KHTDaBnkQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1V7QeB8vG7pYnyxab2JoA1">Tejashwi Yadav</a>, also the leader of opposition in the Bihar assembly, said Modi will portray himself as the son of the extremely backwards.

"PM @narendramodi ji is coming to Bihar today. He would portray himself as the son of extremely backwards. Will make an abortive bid to create polarisation," he tweeted.

"Bihar is expecting 'lies and jumlas' from him (PM Modi). Hope that the PM would give account of his 2014 promises such as giving special status, special package to Bihar, and also about giving free education and medicine #BiharRejectsModi," Tejashwi Yadav said.

The RJD leader's tweet comes two days after he had termed Modi as a "fake backward", who did nothing for OBCs.

The remark had drawn a sharp reaction from the BJP, with national general secretary Bhupendra Yadav terming it as "arrogant, graceless and childish" made on the advice of Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Tejashwi Yadav on Monday also asked the PM to name any project in Bihar, for which he had laid the foundation and inaugurated.

Modi would address a public meeting near the highway that was constructed by the UPA government, he said, adding, the Manmohan Singh-led government sanctioned projects worth Rs 1.44 lakh crore for Bihar, "while you (PM) merely indulged in rhetoric".

Taking a swipe at Bihar CM Nitish Kumar for not releasing its manifesto, he said, "Nitish jee is so much scared of PM Modi that they (JDU leaders) have not released their manifesto so far."

BJP has fielded Pradeep Singh from the Araria constituency, which would go to polls along with four other constituencies of Jhanjharpur, Supaul, Madhepura and Khagaria in third phase on April 23

Bihar is expecting "lies and jumlas" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election rally in Araria Lok Sabha constituency, RJD leader and former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav said on Saturday.

Bihar is expecting "lies and jumlas" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election rally in Araria Lok Sabha constituency, RJD leader and former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav said on Saturday. Hours before the PM's rally at Forbesganj town in favour of NDA candidates in the state, Tejashwi Yadav, also the leader of opposition in the Bihar assembly, said Modi will portray himself as the son of the extremely backwards. "PM @narendramodi ji is coming to Bihar today. He would portray himself as the son of extremely backwards. Will make an abortive bid to create polarisation," he tweeted. "Bihar is expecting 'lies and jumlas' from him (PM Modi). Hope that the PM would give account of his 2014 promises such as giving special status, special package to Bihar, and also about giving free education and medicine #BiharRejectsModi," Tejashwi Yadav said. The RJD leader's tweet comes two days after he had termed Modi as a "fake backward", who did nothing for OBCs. The remark had drawn a sharp reaction from the BJP, with national general secretary Bhupendra Yadav terming it as "arrogant, graceless and childish" made on the advice of Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Tejashwi Yadav on Monday also asked the PM to name any project in Bihar, for which he had laid the foundation and inaugurated. Modi would address a public meeting near the highway that was constructed by the UPA government, he said, adding, the Manmohan Singh-led government sanctioned projects worth Rs 1.44 lakh crore for Bihar, "while you (PM) merely indulged in rhetoric". Taking a swipe at Bihar CM Nitish Kumar for not releasing its manifesto, he said, "Nitish jee is so much scared of PM Modi that they (JDU leaders) have not released their manifesto so far." BJP has fielded Pradeep Singh from the Araria constituency, which would go to polls along with four other constituencies of Jhanjharpur, Supaul, Madhepura and Khagaria in third phase on April 23

Bihar expecting lies and jumlas in PM rally: Tejashwi Yadav

Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav challenging the Bihar government's order asking him to vacate the bungalow allotted to him while he was the deputy chief minister.&nbsp;

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on him.

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Supreme Court dismisses a plea of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav challenging the Bihar government's order asking him to vacate the bungalow allotted to him while he was the deputy chief minister. CJI Ranjan Gogoi also imposed a cost of Rs 50,000 on Tejashwi Yadav. <a href="https://t.co/vKVZ1i3xNe">pic.twitter.com/vKVZ1i3xNe</a>
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Yadav earlier filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Patna High Court judgement which had turned down his petition challenging the Bihar government order to vacate his bungalow to make way for Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi.

The premises was allotted to Yadav in 2015 upon his appointment as the deputy chief minister of the then 'Grand Alliance' government headed by Nitish Kumar.

He continues to occupy the sprawling bungalow, situated adjacent to the chief minister's residence, even after the lapse of more than a year since RJD lost power in the state and Kumar now heads an NDA government.

Yadav is currently the leader of the opposition in the state assembly.&nbsp;

Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav challenging the Bihar government's order asking him to vacate the bungalow allotted to him while he was the deputy chief minister.

Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav challenging the Bihar government's order asking him to vacate the bungalow allotted to him while he was the deputy chief minister. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on him. Supreme Court dismisses a plea of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav challenging the Bihar government's order asking him to vacate the bungalow allotted to him while he was the deputy chief minister. CJI Ranjan Gogoi also imposed a cost of Rs 50,000 on Tejashwi Yadav. pic.twitter.com/vKVZ1i3xNe — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2019 × Yadav earlier filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Patna High Court judgement which had turned down his petition challenging the Bihar government order to vacate his bungalow to make way for Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi. The premises was allotted to Yadav in 2015 upon his appointment as the deputy chief minister of the then 'Grand Alliance' government headed by Nitish Kumar. He continues to occupy the sprawling bungalow, situated adjacent to the chief minister's residence, even after the lapse of more than a year since RJD lost power in the state and Kumar now heads an NDA government. Yadav is currently the leader of the opposition in the state assembly.

SC dismisses Tejashwi Yadav's plea challenging decision asking him to vacate govt bungalow 

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi was qualified to be the prime minister.

Tejashwi is the second Opposition leader after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin to propose the Congress chief`s name as the prime ministerial candidate. He stressed that the Gandhi scion was "capable and qualified" for the post.

"You have all the qualifications to become the next Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi is capable and qualified for the post of Prime Minister. The biggest responsibility for the Congress is to take along all the other parties", Tejashwi said at the 'Jan Akanksha Rally'&nbsp;at the Gandhi Maidan in Patna.

He further said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, then he would focus more on Bihar.

The RJD leader said that the Congress` biggest responsibility was to save democracy in the country.

Tejashwi accused the BJP of not fulfilling all promises they made in 2014 and alleged that they were using institutions like CBI and ED to target its political opponents.

Earlier, Stalin, while addressing a rally in Chennai in December last year, said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, he could provide a stable government, adding that the Congress chief had the ability to defeat the "fascist" Narendra Modi-led government.

Later, the DMK chief defended his comments saying there was nothing wrong with his suggestion as he was merely expressing the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu."Yes, I did propose the name of Rahul Gandhi as the next prime ministerial candidate (for Lok Sabha elections) in the DMK rally. What is wrong with it? It was the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu," Stalin had said.

The comments by both Stalin and Tejashwi assumes significance when all the political parties have come forward ahead of the general elections, just a few months away, to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi was qualified to be the prime minister. Tejashwi is the second Opposition leader after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin to propose the Congress chief`s name as the prime ministerial candidate.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi was qualified to be the prime minister. Tejashwi is the second Opposition leader after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin to propose the Congress chief`s name as the prime ministerial candidate. He stressed that the Gandhi scion was "capable and qualified" for the post. "You have all the qualifications to become the next Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi is capable and qualified for the post of Prime Minister. The biggest responsibility for the Congress is to take along all the other parties", Tejashwi said at the 'Jan Akanksha Rally' at the Gandhi Maidan in Patna. He further said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, then he would focus more on Bihar. The RJD leader said that the Congress` biggest responsibility was to save democracy in the country. Tejashwi accused the BJP of not fulfilling all promises they made in 2014 and alleged that they were using institutions like CBI and ED to target its political opponents. Earlier, Stalin, while addressing a rally in Chennai in December last year, said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, he could provide a stable government, adding that the Congress chief had the ability to defeat the "fascist" Narendra Modi-led government. Later, the DMK chief defended his comments saying there was nothing wrong with his suggestion as he was merely expressing the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu."Yes, I did propose the name of Rahul Gandhi as the next prime ministerial candidate (for Lok Sabha elections) in the DMK rally. What is wrong with it? It was the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu," Stalin had said. The comments by both Stalin and Tejashwi assumes significance when all the political parties have come forward ahead of the general elections, just a few months away, to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.

After Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav backs Rahul Gandhi as PM

The Congress is "best equipped" to lead the opposition's charge against the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said Sunday, asserting that the grand old party will have to handle its leadership role with "large-heartedness" and accommodate regional parties.

Yadav also hailed the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh and emphasised that his "courtesy call" meetings with Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati post the tie-up should not be construed as a "pressure tactic" aimed at the Congress.

In an exclusive interview to PTI, the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader said since Congress is India's oldest and and currently the second-biggest political party having a pan-India presence, it is in a very strong position to win maximum number of seats among the opposition parties.

In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, among the prospective opposition grand alliance parties, the Congress had won 44 seats, the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress won 34, the Samajwadi Party won five, while the RJD had bagged four seats.

"I don't find anything wrong if Congress plays a pivotal role in forming the alliance or taking the leadership role of the alliance into the elections.&nbsp;

But having said that, they have to accept that each state has different ground realities," Yadav said when asked if for a strong opposition coalition, the Congress has to be the pivot of the alliance.

The Congress, being the party with national acceptance and maximum footprint in the opposition, is "undoubtedly best equipped" to lead the opposition's charge against the Bharatiya Janata Party or the National Democratic Alliance, the former Bihar deputy chief minister asserted.

"However, the Congress will have to handle their leadership role with large-heartedness and play a proactive role by accommodating regional parties with their agenda.

"In states where Congress don't have a robust base, it must allow regional outfits to occupy the frontal-attack position against the BJP," Yadav said, emphasising that regional parties have a greater ability to transfer votes.

The concentration is on winnability, hence the coalition must be decided state-wise and seat wise, said the 29-year-old son of former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad.

Every party will have to compromise or lend space to other parties depending on the situation in a particular state for forming a winning alliance, Yadav said while replying to a question on whether the Congress has to be more giving to regional parties to strengthen the opposition coalition.

Asked if leaving out the Congress from the SP-BSP tie-up will impact the opposition's national level coalition, he said the people of India feel they have been "duped badly" and have made up their mind to get rid of propagandists for their own well-being.

The people are wise enough to understand which fighting block can be their best bet to defeat the BJP, he said.

On whether the SP and BSP will be a part of the mahagathbandhan' in Bihar, the RJD leader said principally all opposition parties are together against the BJP-led alliance.

"You don't always need seats to contest to prove that you are part of an alliance. Sometimes lending unconditional support works wonders for sending the message across to the electorate.

"It is true that the SP and the BSP aren't main political parties of Bihar, but we have high regard for them and their politics. We have seen that SP-BSP alliance has decided not to field their candidates in Amethi and Raebareli," Yadav said.

Once arch-rivals, the SP and the BSP announced this month their tie-up in UP for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, sharing 38 seats each and keeping the Congress out of the alliance.

Tejashwi Yadav's remarks come amid hectic efforts by the opposition to forge a strong alliance to take on the BJP in the general election.

Leaders from several opposition parties, including Yadav, came together Saturday, vowing at a mega rally in Kolkata to put up a united fight in the coming polls and oust Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power.

Prime Minister Modi had earlier hit out at the Mahagatbandhan for the polls, saying it was an "unholy alliance" of various political parties for "personal survival". The BJP has also slammed the SP-BSP tie-up in UP.

Yadav also hit out at those dubbing his meeting with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and BSP supremo Mayawati in Lucknow as a pressure tactic aimed at the Congress, saying his family always had close ties with the two leaders and the meetings were courtesy calls.

Akhilesh ji is part of our extended family and 'behen' Mayawati ji always had cordial relations with us. When she resigned from Rajya Sabha, my father publicly said RJD would always be ready to send her to Rajya Sabha if she agrees, Tejashwi Yadav said.

Even last year during RS elections in Bihar, I called her to request her again to enter Rajya Sabha with RJD backing. So my courtesy calls to them shouldn't be construed as a pressure tactic, he said.

As far as Bihar is concerned, irrespective of the number of MLAs in the assembly or being part of the government or opposition, everyone knows RJD is the biggest party, he said. It is RJD's fear that has kept the BJP and Janata Dal (United) together, he claimed.

On BJP terming the SP-BSP tie-up an opportunistic alliance, Yadav hit out at the saffron party saying when it has tie-ups, it calls it "smart politicking", and asked what should its coalition of about 40 parties be called.

"Criticism by the BJP shows their uneasiness due to this alliance," he said.

The Congress is "best equipped" to lead the opposition's charge against the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said Sunday, asserting that the grand old party will have to handle its leadership role with "large-heartedness" and accommodate regional parties.

The Congress is "best equipped" to lead the opposition's charge against the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said Sunday, asserting that the grand old party will have to handle its leadership role with "large-heartedness" and accommodate regional parties. Yadav also hailed the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party alliance in Uttar Pradesh and emphasised that his "courtesy call" meetings with Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati post the tie-up should not be construed as a "pressure tactic" aimed at the Congress. In an exclusive interview to PTI, the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader said since Congress is India's oldest and and currently the second-biggest political party having a pan-India presence, it is in a very strong position to win maximum number of seats among the opposition parties. In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, among the prospective opposition grand alliance parties, the Congress had won 44 seats, the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress won 34, the Samajwadi Party won five, while the RJD had bagged four seats. "I don't find anything wrong if Congress plays a pivotal role in forming the alliance or taking the leadership role of the alliance into the elections. But having said that, they have to accept that each state has different ground realities," Yadav said when asked if for a strong opposition coalition, the Congress has to be the pivot of the alliance. The Congress, being the party with national acceptance and maximum footprint in the opposition, is "undoubtedly best equipped" to lead the opposition's charge against the Bharatiya Janata Party or the National Democratic Alliance, the former Bihar deputy chief minister asserted. "However, the Congress will have to handle their leadership role with large-heartedness and play a proactive role by accommodating regional parties with their agenda. "In states where Congress don't have a robust base, it must allow regional outfits to occupy the frontal-attack position against the BJP," Yadav said, emphasising that regional parties have a greater ability to transfer votes. The concentration is on winnability, hence the coalition must be decided state-wise and seat wise, said the 29-year-old son of former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad. Every party will have to compromise or lend space to other parties depending on the situation in a particular state for forming a winning alliance, Yadav said while replying to a question on whether the Congress has to be more giving to regional parties to strengthen the opposition coalition. Asked if leaving out the Congress from the SP-BSP tie-up will impact the opposition's national level coalition, he said the people of India feel they have been "duped badly" and have made up their mind to get rid of propagandists for their own well-being. The people are wise enough to understand which fighting block can be their best bet to defeat the BJP, he said. On whether the SP and BSP will be a part of the mahagathbandhan' in Bihar, the RJD leader said principally all opposition parties are together against the BJP-led alliance. "You don't always need seats to contest to prove that you are part of an alliance. Sometimes lending unconditional support works wonders for sending the message across to the electorate. "It is true that the SP and the BSP aren't main political parties of Bihar, but we have high regard for them and their politics. We have seen that SP-BSP alliance has decided not to field their candidates in Amethi and Raebareli," Yadav said. Once arch-rivals, the SP and the BSP announced this month their tie-up in UP for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, sharing 38 seats each and keeping the Congress out of the alliance. Tejashwi Yadav's remarks come amid hectic efforts by the opposition to forge a strong alliance to take on the BJP in the general election. Leaders from several opposition parties, including Yadav, came together Saturday, vowing at a mega rally in Kolkata to put up a united fight in the coming polls and oust Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power. Prime Minister Modi had earlier hit out at the Mahagatbandhan for the polls, saying it was an "unholy alliance" of various political parties for "personal survival". The BJP has also slammed the SP-BSP tie-up in UP. Yadav also hit out at those dubbing his meeting with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and BSP supremo Mayawati in Lucknow as a pressure tactic aimed at the Congress, saying his family always had close ties with the two leaders and the meetings were courtesy calls. Akhilesh ji is part of our extended family and 'behen' Mayawati ji always had cordial relations with us. When she resigned from Rajya Sabha, my father publicly said RJD would always be ready to send her to Rajya Sabha if she agrees, Tejashwi Yadav said. Even last year during RS elections in Bihar, I called her to request her again to enter Rajya Sabha with RJD backing. So my courtesy calls to them shouldn't be construed as a pressure tactic, he said. As far as Bihar is concerned, irrespective of the number of MLAs in the assembly or being part of the government or opposition, everyone knows RJD is the biggest party, he said. It is RJD's fear that has kept the BJP and Janata Dal (United) together, he claimed. On BJP terming the SP-BSP tie-up an opportunistic alliance, Yadav hit out at the saffron party saying when it has tie-ups, it calls it "smart politicking", and asked what should its coalition of about 40 parties be called. "Criticism by the BJP shows their uneasiness due to this alliance," he said.

Congress best equipped to lead alliance against BJP: Tejashwi Yadav

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's wholehearted support to the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the 2019 general election drew snide remarks on Monday from the ruling NDA in Bihar which wondered whether it was part of "strong-arm tactics" against the Congress, its ally in the 'mahagathbandhan'.

The NDA's reaction came after Tejashwi Yadav greeted Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav for forging an alliance and dumping the Congress out of it.

"This step of the BSP and the SP is going to be hailed in later stages," Tejashwi Yadav said in Lucknow Monday.

A mortified Congress evaded a direct reply when it was asked about Yadav's Lucknow visit, where he touched Mayawati's feet and declared the RJD's full support to the alliance at a press conference he jointly addressed with Akhilesh Yadav.

BJP spokesman Nikhil Anand asserted it is actually a "posturing, a strong arm tactic by the RJD" which, he added, has an inflated sense of its importance and treats its alliance partners with contempt.

"Tejashwi Yadav is indirectly trying to show his party's alliance in Bihar that the RJD will dictate the terms in the alliance here," Anand said.

"Whatever Tejashwi Yadav's Lucknow tour may mean for UP politics, in Bihar it is clearly indicative of the clash of egos that the Grand Alliance is witnessing. The clash of egos has come in the way of finalising a seat-sharing arrangement among its too many constituents. We are looking at a situation where they would not be able to reach any understanding till the date of voting and end up fighting each other," he claimed.

Media reports suggest that the Congress is demanding a large number of seats out of the total 40 in Bihar to be a part of the 'mahagathbandhan.'&nbsp;It has cited its recent victory in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh to assert its claim, but the RJD, the main force behind the anti-NDA coalition, is unwilling to accept the demand.

Reacting to the developments, LJP leader Chirag Paswan said, "We wonder what type of Grand Alliance the opposition in Bihar had been talking about. In UP, the Congress, which was supposed to lead the so-called 'mahagathbandhan', has been left out".

"Tejashwi Yadav and his party are in dire straits so, maybe, he is on an expedition to make as many political friends as possible... The SP-BSP alliance may be a strong one, but there is nothing grand about it," Paswan, son of LJP founder Ram Vilas Paswan and chairman of the party's parliamentary board, said.

Similar views were expressed by JD(U) MLC and spokesman Neeraj Kumar who questioned whether Tejashwi Yadav had no concern for the "insult" meted out to the Congress by the formation of SP-BSP alliance.

Congress MLC Prem Chandra Mishra tried to side-step a question on the alliance, saying Tejashwi Yadav has family relations with Akhilesh Yadav. "Maybe he has gone there in a personal capacity, to celebrate Makar Sankranti."

However, when the queries persisted, he said until and unless the RJD comes out with a statement explaining why it is lending support to a formation which has not taken the Congress on board, "we would not like to say anything on the matter".

At his Lucknow press conference, Tejashwi Yadav, who has emerged as the de facto leader of his party in the absence of his father and RJD supremo

Lalu Prasad claimed even Congress president Rahul Gandhi has said that it does not matter who is in an alliance as long as it serves the purpose of defeating the BJP.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's wholehearted support to the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the 2019 general election drew snide remarks on Monday from the ruling NDA in Bihar which wondered whether it was part of "strong-arm tactics" against the Congress, its ally in the 'mahagathbandhan'.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav's wholehearted support to the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh for the 2019 general election drew snide remarks on Monday from the ruling NDA in Bihar which wondered whether it was part of "strong-arm tactics" against the Congress, its ally in the 'mahagathbandhan'. The NDA's reaction came after Tejashwi Yadav greeted Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav for forging an alliance and dumping the Congress out of it. "This step of the BSP and the SP is going to be hailed in later stages," Tejashwi Yadav said in Lucknow Monday. A mortified Congress evaded a direct reply when it was asked about Yadav's Lucknow visit, where he touched Mayawati's feet and declared the RJD's full support to the alliance at a press conference he jointly addressed with Akhilesh Yadav. BJP spokesman Nikhil Anand asserted it is actually a "posturing, a strong arm tactic by the RJD" which, he added, has an inflated sense of its importance and treats its alliance partners with contempt. "Tejashwi Yadav is indirectly trying to show his party's alliance in Bihar that the RJD will dictate the terms in the alliance here," Anand said. "Whatever Tejashwi Yadav's Lucknow tour may mean for UP politics, in Bihar it is clearly indicative of the clash of egos that the Grand Alliance is witnessing. The clash of egos has come in the way of finalising a seat-sharing arrangement among its too many constituents. We are looking at a situation where they would not be able to reach any understanding till the date of voting and end up fighting each other," he claimed. Media reports suggest that the Congress is demanding a large number of seats out of the total 40 in Bihar to be a part of the 'mahagathbandhan.' It has cited its recent victory in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh to assert its claim, but the RJD, the main force behind the anti-NDA coalition, is unwilling to accept the demand. Reacting to the developments, LJP leader Chirag Paswan said, "We wonder what type of Grand Alliance the opposition in Bihar had been talking about. In UP, the Congress, which was supposed to lead the so-called 'mahagathbandhan', has been left out". "Tejashwi Yadav and his party are in dire straits so, maybe, he is on an expedition to make as many political friends as possible... The SP-BSP alliance may be a strong one, but there is nothing grand about it," Paswan, son of LJP founder Ram Vilas Paswan and chairman of the party's parliamentary board, said. Similar views were expressed by JD(U) MLC and spokesman Neeraj Kumar who questioned whether Tejashwi Yadav had no concern for the "insult" meted out to the Congress by the formation of SP-BSP alliance. Congress MLC Prem Chandra Mishra tried to side-step a question on the alliance, saying Tejashwi Yadav has family relations with Akhilesh Yadav. "Maybe he has gone there in a personal capacity, to celebrate Makar Sankranti." However, when the queries persisted, he said until and unless the RJD comes out with a statement explaining why it is lending support to a formation which has not taken the Congress on board, "we would not like to say anything on the matter". At his Lucknow press conference, Tejashwi Yadav, who has emerged as the de facto leader of his party in the absence of his father and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad claimed even Congress president Rahul Gandhi has said that it does not matter who is in an alliance as long as it serves the purpose of defeating the BJP.

Tejashwi Yadav extends support to SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh

The opposition Grand Alliance in Bihar is likely to hold its first formal deliberation on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls during a meeting on Monday at the residence of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav.

The meeting is likely to be attended by all constituents of the 'Mahagathbandhan' that comprises the RJD, the Congress, former Union minister Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP, former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's HAM and veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's LJD.

Tejashwi Yadav is the leader of the opposition in the state assembly.

According to sources in the Grand Alliance, the meeting will be marked by "broad discussions on the respective number of seats to be fought by each constituent, and identifying constituencies best suited for each alliance partner".

They, however, added that a final agreement may be deferred till the release of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad serving sentences in fodder scam cases judgement on whose bail application has been reserved by the Jharkhand High Court.

Moreover, leaders of the Grand Alliance have also been stating that a public announcement about the seat-sharing arrangements will be made only after January 14, when the inauspicious month of 'Kharmaas' comes to an end.

Meanwhile, Jitan Ram Manjhi rubbished reports that have appeared in a section of the media, claiming that he was toying with the idea of a possible return to the NDA, as he was not getting his due in the Grand Alliance.

"This is nonsense. Only on Saturday I was in Ranchi to meet Lalu Prasad. It is another thing that because of his poor health, I avoided getting into any detailed discussions on political matters," he told reporters.

In an alliance, all constituents have to be ready to make some sacrifices, the former chief minister said.

"We are not at all insistent on a particular number of seats in Lok Sabha polls, and though we maintain that we are in a good position in at least 20 out of 40 in the state, we will work for the 'Mahagathbandhan's' victory even if we end up fighting not a single seat," Manjhi asserted.

The opposition Grand Alliance in Bihar is likely to hold its first formal deliberation on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls during a meeting on Monday at the residence of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav.

The opposition Grand Alliance in Bihar is likely to hold its first formal deliberation on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls during a meeting on Monday at the residence of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. The meeting is likely to be attended by all constituents of the 'Mahagathbandhan' that comprises the RJD, the Congress, former Union minister Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP, former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's HAM and veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav's LJD. Tejashwi Yadav is the leader of the opposition in the state assembly. According to sources in the Grand Alliance, the meeting will be marked by "broad discussions on the respective number of seats to be fought by each constituent, and identifying constituencies best suited for each alliance partner". They, however, added that a final agreement may be deferred till the release of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad serving sentences in fodder scam cases judgement on whose bail application has been reserved by the Jharkhand High Court. Moreover, leaders of the Grand Alliance have also been stating that a public announcement about the seat-sharing arrangements will be made only after January 14, when the inauspicious month of 'Kharmaas' comes to an end. Meanwhile, Jitan Ram Manjhi rubbished reports that have appeared in a section of the media, claiming that he was toying with the idea of a possible return to the NDA, as he was not getting his due in the Grand Alliance. "This is nonsense. Only on Saturday I was in Ranchi to meet Lalu Prasad. It is another thing that because of his poor health, I avoided getting into any detailed discussions on political matters," he told reporters. In an alliance, all constituents have to be ready to make some sacrifices, the former chief minister said. "We are not at all insistent on a particular number of seats in Lok Sabha polls, and though we maintain that we are in a good position in at least 20 out of 40 in the state, we will work for the 'Mahagathbandhan's' victory even if we end up fighting not a single seat," Manjhi asserted.

Tejashwi Yadav to host Grand Alliance meet today

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) president Upendra Kushwaha on Friday met RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Arwal district.

The meeting assumes significance as earlier in the day BJP president Amit Shah and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced in the national capital that their parties will contest equal number of Lok Sabha seats in the state and the RLSP and LJP will remain with the NDA.&nbsp;

A picture of Kushwaha and Tejashwi Yadav's meeting has been shared by the RJD on its mobile app.

Though the details were not immediately available, Kushwaha meeting the top leader of rival combination on a day Shah talked about seat-sharing arrangements in the NDA assumes political significance.&nbsp;

Shah told reporters in New Delhi that an announcement on the number of seats of NAD allies in Bihar, including Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP and Ram Vilas Paswan's LJP, will be declared in two-three days.

To a question about whether Kushwaha, whose equation with Kumar is far from cordial, will remain a part of the NDA, Shah answered in affirmative and asserted the alliance will do better than the last polls when it had won 31 seats.

"All four parties will remain part of the NDA," he said.&nbsp;

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) president Upendra Kushwaha on Friday met RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Arwal district. The meeting assumes significance as earlier in the day BJP president Amit Shah and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced in the national capital that their parties will contest equal number of Lok Sabha seats in the state and the RLSP and LJP will remain with the NDA.

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) president Upendra Kushwaha on Friday met RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in Arwal district. The meeting assumes significance as earlier in the day BJP president Amit Shah and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced in the national capital that their parties will contest equal number of Lok Sabha seats in the state and the RLSP and LJP will remain with the NDA. A picture of Kushwaha and Tejashwi Yadav's meeting has been shared by the RJD on its mobile app. Though the details were not immediately available, Kushwaha meeting the top leader of rival combination on a day Shah talked about seat-sharing arrangements in the NDA assumes political significance. Shah told reporters in New Delhi that an announcement on the number of seats of NAD allies in Bihar, including Upendra Kushwaha's RLSP and Ram Vilas Paswan's LJP, will be declared in two-three days. To a question about whether Kushwaha, whose equation with Kumar is far from cordial, will remain a part of the NDA, Shah answered in affirmative and asserted the alliance will do better than the last polls when it had won 31 seats. "All four parties will remain part of the NDA," he said.

RJD chief Tejashwi Yadav meets Union minister Upendra Kushwaha

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav Thursday disapproved of the posters put up outside his residence and the party office a day ago, depicting him as Lord Ram and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as demon king Ravana.

Former Deputy Chief Minister Yadav, however, urged the chief minister to introspect as to why "there is so much public anger against him and which are the promises he did not keep".

Sharing a news report about the posters put up by a junior party functionary, the RJD heir apparent said in a Tweet that he did not endorse this.

"But Nitish too should spare a thought as to why the people are so angry with him. He must pay heed to his 'inner voice' and introspect as to which are the promises he has not kept. He must ponder over the public outrage," said Yadav, the leader of the Opposition in the state assembly.

Yadav's "inner voice" remark was an apparent dig at the chief minister's stance of resigning last year after corruption cases had surfaced against the RJD leader, triggering demands of his removal.

Kumar had then said he was putting in his papers in accordance with his "inner voice" but formed a new government within less than 24 hours after forging an alliance with the BJP which was in the opposition till then.

The RJD has been vehemently criticising Kumar ever since, accusing him of negating the 2015 assembly polls mandate, which the Grand Alliance of RJD and JD(U) had won handsomely.

An RJD spokesman had said Wednesday that the posters were not put up as per directions of any senior leader but by "over-enthusiastic workers" who were enraged over the betrayal of mandate by Kumar last year.

He had also insisted that depiction of Kumar as ten-headed Ravana was not a personal attack on him but was to criticise his government which, he said, has failed on all fronts.

A controversy erupted here Wednesday over the posters put up by an RJD leader.

Besides attracting criticism from the ruling JD(U), which Kumar heads, the posters were also disapproved of by the RJD ally Congress.&nbsp;

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav Thursday disapproved of the posters put up outside his residence and the party office a day ago, depicting him as Lord Ram and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as demon king Ravana.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav Thursday disapproved of the posters put up outside his residence and the party office a day ago, depicting him as Lord Ram and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as demon king Ravana. Former Deputy Chief Minister Yadav, however, urged the chief minister to introspect as to why "there is so much public anger against him and which are the promises he did not keep". Sharing a news report about the posters put up by a junior party functionary, the RJD heir apparent said in a Tweet that he did not endorse this. "But Nitish too should spare a thought as to why the people are so angry with him. He must pay heed to his 'inner voice' and introspect as to which are the promises he has not kept. He must ponder over the public outrage," said Yadav, the leader of the Opposition in the state assembly. Yadav's "inner voice" remark was an apparent dig at the chief minister's stance of resigning last year after corruption cases had surfaced against the RJD leader, triggering demands of his removal. Kumar had then said he was putting in his papers in accordance with his "inner voice" but formed a new government within less than 24 hours after forging an alliance with the BJP which was in the opposition till then. The RJD has been vehemently criticising Kumar ever since, accusing him of negating the 2015 assembly polls mandate, which the Grand Alliance of RJD and JD(U) had won handsomely. An RJD spokesman had said Wednesday that the posters were not put up as per directions of any senior leader but by "over-enthusiastic workers" who were enraged over the betrayal of mandate by Kumar last year. He had also insisted that depiction of Kumar as ten-headed Ravana was not a personal attack on him but was to criticise his government which, he said, has failed on all fronts. A controversy erupted here Wednesday over the posters put up by an RJD leader. Besides attracting criticism from the ruling JD(U), which Kumar heads, the posters were also disapproved of by the RJD ally Congress.

Tejashwi Yadav disapproves of posters depicting him as Ram and Nitish as Ravan

A Delhi court Saturday granted bail to RJD chief Lalu Prasad's wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav and others in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case lodged by the CBI.

Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj also granted interim bail till November 19 to Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and others in a money laundering case filed by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to the alleged scam.

The court also directed Prasad to be produced through video conference on November 19 in the cases filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the ED.

The court granted bail to Rabri and Tejashwi Yadav in the CBI case on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and a surety of a like amount.

However, the regular bail was not granted to the accused in the ED case after the agency sought time to file a reply to the bail applications.

The court had earlier granted interim bail to the accused, except Prasad, on August 31 till today in the case filed by the CBI after the agency had sought time to file a reply today.

Earlier, the court had summoned and asked Prasad's family and all others involved to appear before it.&nbsp;

The case is related to alleged irregularities in granting the operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Prasad did not appear before the court on Friday as he is imprisoned in a Jharkhand jail on another charge.

The CBI, which had on April 16 filed the charge sheet in the case, had said there was enough evidence against Prasad, Rabri, Tejashwi and others.

Earlier, the CBI had informed the court that sanction has been procured from authorities concerned to prosecute Additional Member of Railway Board B K Agarwal, who was then the group general manager of the IRCTC.

Besides Lalu Prasad and his family members, former Union minister Prem Chand Gupta and his wife Sarla Gupta and Agarwal, then managing director of IRCTC P K Goyal and then IRCTC director Rakesh Saxena were also named in the charge sheet.

The other names in the charge sheet include then group general managers of IRCTC V K Asthana and R K Goyal, and Vijay Kochhar, Vinay Kochhar, both directors of Sujata Hotels and owners of Chanakya Hotel.

Delight Marketing Company, now known as Lara Projects, and Sujata Hotels Private Limited have also been named as accused companies in the charge sheet.

The CBI had registered a case in July last year and carried out searches at 12 locations in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Gurgaon in connection with the case.

The charges in the case include criminal conspiracy (120-B), cheating (420) under IPC and corruption, the central probe agency had said.

The ED had filed a case based on the CBI FIR.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Delhi court Saturday granted bail to RJD chief Lalu Prasad's wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav and others in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case lodged by the CBI.

A Delhi court Saturday granted bail to RJD chief Lalu Prasad's wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav and others in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case lodged by the CBI. Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj also granted interim bail till November 19 to Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and others in a money laundering case filed by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to the alleged scam. The court also directed Prasad to be produced through video conference on November 19 in the cases filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the ED. The court granted bail to Rabri and Tejashwi Yadav in the CBI case on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and a surety of a like amount. However, the regular bail was not granted to the accused in the ED case after the agency sought time to file a reply to the bail applications. The court had earlier granted interim bail to the accused, except Prasad, on August 31 till today in the case filed by the CBI after the agency had sought time to file a reply today. Earlier, the court had summoned and asked Prasad's family and all others involved to appear before it. The case is related to alleged irregularities in granting the operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Prasad did not appear before the court on Friday as he is imprisoned in a Jharkhand jail on another charge. The CBI, which had on April 16 filed the charge sheet in the case, had said there was enough evidence against Prasad, Rabri, Tejashwi and others. Earlier, the CBI had informed the court that sanction has been procured from authorities concerned to prosecute Additional Member of Railway Board B K Agarwal, who was then the group general manager of the IRCTC. Besides Lalu Prasad and his family members, former Union minister Prem Chand Gupta and his wife Sarla Gupta and Agarwal, then managing director of IRCTC P K Goyal and then IRCTC director Rakesh Saxena were also named in the charge sheet. The other names in the charge sheet include then group general managers of IRCTC V K Asthana and R K Goyal, and Vijay Kochhar, Vinay Kochhar, both directors of Sujata Hotels and owners of Chanakya Hotel. Delight Marketing Company, now known as Lara Projects, and Sujata Hotels Private Limited have also been named as accused companies in the charge sheet. The CBI had registered a case in July last year and carried out searches at 12 locations in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Gurgaon in connection with the case. The charges in the case include criminal conspiracy (120-B), cheating (420) under IPC and corruption, the central probe agency had said. The ED had filed a case based on the CBI FIR.

IRCTC scam: Bail granted to Lalu's wife Rabri Devi, son Tejashwi Yadav

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday refuted reports of rift within his family and alleged that the rumours were being spread at the instance of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to demoralise party cadre and supporters.

The younger son of Lalu Prasad was responding to a query by reporters about the family facing frequent grilling and raids by investigating agencies, besides reports that his elder brother Tej Pratap Yadav and eldest sister Misa Yadav were miffed over having been politically overshadowed by him.

"All these reports of a rift within our family are planted at the instance of Nitish Kumar. Attempts are being made to psychologically affect our dedicated workers and supporters," Tejashwi Yadav said.

"It appears that those in power wish to seek votes in the name of what is happening to my family instead of speaking about their own performance. This is new India under Narendra Modi for you," he said.

To a query about Union minister and RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha's possibility of joining the RJD, Congress, HAM combine in Bihar, he said, "We had invited him long back and the invitation stands. But it is for him to take the decision."

About Pappu Yadav, who had won the Madhepura seat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls on RJD ticket and has floated Jan Adhikar Party upon being expelled from the Lalu Prasad-led party, Tej Pratap Yadav said, "For him it is no entry. Period."

Pappu Yadav's wife Ranjeet Ranjan is a Congress MP.&nbsp;

About disgruntled BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha, who has off late been highly appreciative of Tejashwi Yadav and Lalu Prasad, besides turning up at functions held at the RJD leaders' place, he said, "There are no talks with him. There cannot be any until and unless the BJP takes a clear decision about him."

Accusing the Nitish Kumar government of failing to effectively maintain law and order and implement its own welfare schemes, Tejashwi Yadav said that he would embark on his next phase of public awareness campaign after Dussehra.

To a query about when was he planning to get married, he replied shyly that it was likely to be after the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday refuted reports of rift within his family and alleged that the rumours were being spread at the instance of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to demoralise party cadre and supporters.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday refuted reports of rift within his family and alleged that the rumours were being spread at the instance of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to demoralise party cadre and supporters. The younger son of Lalu Prasad was responding to a query by reporters about the family facing frequent grilling and raids by investigating agencies, besides reports that his elder brother Tej Pratap Yadav and eldest sister Misa Yadav were miffed over having been politically overshadowed by him. "All these reports of a rift within our family are planted at the instance of Nitish Kumar. Attempts are being made to psychologically affect our dedicated workers and supporters," Tejashwi Yadav said. "It appears that those in power wish to seek votes in the name of what is happening to my family instead of speaking about their own performance. This is new India under Narendra Modi for you," he said. To a query about Union minister and RLSP chief Upendra Kushwaha's possibility of joining the RJD, Congress, HAM combine in Bihar, he said, "We had invited him long back and the invitation stands. But it is for him to take the decision." About Pappu Yadav, who had won the Madhepura seat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls on RJD ticket and has floated Jan Adhikar Party upon being expelled from the Lalu Prasad-led party, Tej Pratap Yadav said, "For him it is no entry. Period." Pappu Yadav's wife Ranjeet Ranjan is a Congress MP. About disgruntled BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha, who has off late been highly appreciative of Tejashwi Yadav and Lalu Prasad, besides turning up at functions held at the RJD leaders' place, he said, "There are no talks with him. There cannot be any until and unless the BJP takes a clear decision about him." Accusing the Nitish Kumar government of failing to effectively maintain law and order and implement its own welfare schemes, Tejashwi Yadav said that he would embark on his next phase of public awareness campaign after Dussehra. To a query about when was he planning to get married, he replied shyly that it was likely to be after the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Nitish Kumar behind rumours of rift within my family: Tejashwi Yadav

A day after Tej Pratap accused his younger brother of trying to sideline him in the party, Leader of Opposition and former deputy chief minister of Bihar Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday downplayed the controversy and said&nbsp;that his brother spoke about how to unify and strengthen ''our party ahead of 2019 (general election) & 2020 (Bihar assembly election)''.

''It is very evident Tej Pratap ji spoke on strength of the party. He spoke about how to unify and strengthen our party, ahead of 2019 (general election) & 2020 (Bihar assembly election),'' Tejashwi Yadav said.

''All are working to strengthen the party. We shouldn't make mountain out of a molehill. We must focus on discrepancies in education, how students were given 38 out of 35 marks, how 44 young girls were raped. If you ignore this, Bihar isn't going to benefit at all,'' he added.&nbsp;

Earlier, some reports emerged that Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) President Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav accused his younger brother of trying to sideline him in the party.

Tej Pratap had reportedly also said that there are certain anti-social elements in the party who are trying to ruin the party.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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It is very evident Tej Pratap ji spoke on strength of the party. He spoke about how to unify and strengthen our party, ahead of 2019 (general election) & 2020 (Bihar assembly election). Unhone spasht kaha hai Tejashwi kaleje ka tukda hai. He is my brother & guide: Tejashwi Yadav <a href="https://t.co/eZYwZ0pSYS">pic.twitter.com/eZYwZ0pSYS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005745156153212929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, Tej Pratap Yadav on Sunday rubbished the news of family infighting.

"All this news of family infighting etc is false, there is no such thing, I have nothing against Tejashwi and Lalu ji but yes some other senior leaders in the party are sidelining youth workers," he told reporters here.

"The state President RC Purve is ignoring workers," he added.

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All are working to strengthen the party. We shouldn't make mountain out of a molehill. We must focus on discrepancies on education, how students were given 38 out of 35 marks, how 44 young girls were raped. If you ignore this, Bihar isn't going to benefit at all: Tejashwi Yadav <a href="https://t.co/M0TSigb7Uf">pic.twitter.com/M0TSigb7Uf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005745159483428864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yesterday, Tej Pratap refuted a rift between him and his brother Tejashwi.&nbsp;"There are no differences with my brother Tejashwi, we are very close," Tej Pratap said.

 
&nbsp;

Earlier, some reports emerged that Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) President Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav accused his younger brother of trying to sideline him in the party.

A day after Tej Pratap accused his younger brother of trying to sideline him in the party, Leader of Opposition and former deputy chief minister of Bihar Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday downplayed the controversy and said that his brother spoke about how to unify and strengthen ''our party ahead of 2019 (general election) & 2020 (Bihar assembly election)''. ''It is very evident Tej Pratap ji spoke on strength of the party. He spoke about how to unify and strengthen our party, ahead of 2019 (general election) & 2020 (Bihar assembly election),'' Tejashwi Yadav said. ''All are working to strengthen the party. We shouldn't make mountain out of a molehill. We must focus on discrepancies in education, how students were given 38 out of 35 marks, how 44 young girls were raped. If you ignore this, Bihar isn't going to benefit at all,'' he added. Earlier, some reports emerged that Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) President Lalu Prasad's son Tej Pratap Yadav accused his younger brother of trying to sideline him in the party. Tej Pratap had reportedly also said that there are certain anti-social elements in the party who are trying to ruin the party. It is very evident Tej Pratap ji spoke on strength of the party. He spoke about how to unify and strengthen our party, ahead of 2019 (general election) & 2020 (Bihar assembly election). Unhone spasht kaha hai Tejashwi kaleje ka tukda hai. He is my brother & guide: Tejashwi Yadav pic.twitter.com/eZYwZ0pSYS — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × However, Tej Pratap Yadav on Sunday rubbished the news of family infighting. "All this news of family infighting etc is false, there is no such thing, I have nothing against Tejashwi and Lalu ji but yes some other senior leaders in the party are sidelining youth workers," he told reporters here. "The state President RC Purve is ignoring workers," he added. All are working to strengthen the party. We shouldn't make mountain out of a molehill. We must focus on discrepancies on education, how students were given 38 out of 35 marks, how 44 young girls were raped. If you ignore this, Bihar isn't going to benefit at all: Tejashwi Yadav pic.twitter.com/M0TSigb7Uf — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Yesterday, Tej Pratap refuted a rift between him and his brother Tejashwi. "There are no differences with my brother Tejashwi, we are very close," Tej Pratap said.

Shouldn't make mountain out of molehill: Tejashwi Yadav on brother's allegation he is being sidelined

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rjd-alliance-parties-meet-bihar-governor-submit-letter-proving-majority-137916">RJD leader&nbspTejashwi Yadav</a> met with the Bihar governor Satyapal Malik demanding an invitation from him to form the government in the state, the leader also urged all the opposition parties to come together and collectively oppose the BJP led central government.

Calling the BJP government a "dictatorship" he compared the party with Britishers.

He said, " All the opposition parties need to come together and raise voice against what is being done by BJP across India. We need to oppose their dictatorship. If something is not done now, then soon there will be no Constitution. The Britishers came to India and treated us like slaves. Now BJP is doing the same".

"The BJP leaders will not follow any of the Consitution rules as they feel Prime Minister Narendra Modi is bigger than Constitution."If the Consitution is same for all, then why Karnataka is different from what happened in Bihar?" he asked.

The former deputy chief minister of Bihar was addressing ' Samvidhan Bachao Andolan' rally in Patna on Friday.

The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state despite not having the&nbspmajority mark required to form the government.

He said, 'All the opposition parties need to come together and raise voice against what is being done by BJP across India. We need to oppose their dictatorship'

After RJD leader&nbspTejashwi Yadav met with the Bihar governor Satyapal Malik demanding an invitation from him to form the government in the state, the leader also urged all the opposition parties to come together and collectively oppose the BJP led central government. Calling the BJP government a "dictatorship" he compared the party with Britishers. He said, " All the opposition parties need to come together and raise voice against what is being done by BJP across India. We need to oppose their dictatorship. If something is not done now, then soon there will be no Constitution. The Britishers came to India and treated us like slaves. Now BJP is doing the same". "The BJP leaders will not follow any of the Consitution rules as they feel Prime Minister Narendra Modi is bigger than Constitution."If the Consitution is same for all, then why Karnataka is different from what happened in Bihar?" he asked. The former deputy chief minister of Bihar was addressing ' Samvidhan Bachao Andolan' rally in Patna on Friday. The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state despite not having the&nbspmajority mark required to form the government.

Tejashwi Yadav urges opposition to join together against BJP

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav and other alliance leaders met with the Bihar Governor Satyapal Malik today&nbspto prove their majority in&nbspthe state assembly.&nbsp

The parties handed over letters to the governor showing RJD as the single largest party in the assembly.&nbsp

The meeting was organised&nbspto demand&nbspan invitation from the governor for forming the&nbspgovernment in the state.&nbsp

The parties which joined the RJD in the meeting included Congress and CPI (ML).

RJD's Tejashwi Yadav had said yesterday that their party will hold a one-day protest against the ''murder of democracy''. He also said he will request Bihar Governor to dissolve the state government and like Karnataka invite the single largest party which in Bihar is RJD. &nbsp

A similar meeting was organised by the Congress MLAs in Goa where they met the Goa governor and handed over a memorandum to her stating their majority.

The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state after emerging as the single largest party,&nbspless than the majority mark.&nbsp

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&nbsp

The meeting was organised to demand an invitation from the governor for forming the government in the state

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav and other alliance leaders met with the Bihar Governor Satyapal Malik today&nbspto prove their majority in&nbspthe state assembly. The parties handed over letters to the governor showing RJD as the single largest party in the assembly. The meeting was organised&nbspto demand&nbspan invitation from the governor for forming the&nbspgovernment in the state. The parties which joined the RJD in the meeting included Congress and CPI (ML). RJD's Tejashwi Yadav had said yesterday that their party will hold a one-day protest against the ''murder of democracy''. He also said he will request Bihar Governor to dissolve the state government and like Karnataka invite the single largest party which in Bihar is RJD. A similar meeting was organised by the Congress MLAs in Goa where they met the Goa governor and handed over a memorandum to her stating their majority. The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state after emerging as the single largest party,&nbspless than the majority mark. RJD and other alliance parties-Congress and CPI(ML) hand over letters to Governor Satyapal Malik stating that RJD is the single largest party hence should be invited to form Government pic.twitter.com/NdTSuvBsB0 — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2018 × Patna: Tejashwi Yadav and other alliance leaders met Bihar Governor Satyapal Malik, hand over letters stating that RJD is the single largest party and hence should be invited to form Government pic.twitter.com/K24yHxu3nH — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2018 ×

RJD, alliance parties meet Bihar governor, submit letter proving majority

RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav, who is serving a prison sentence in the multi-crore fodder scam, has been granted a five-day parole on Wednesday to attend son Tej Pratap Yadav's wedding. He is currently admitted in Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi.

Lalu will be flown to Patna this evening.&nbsp;

Lalu, who has been convicted in three fodder scam cases by a special CBI court in Ranchi, is currently undergoing treatment at RIMS hospital in the Jharkhand capital.

Meanwhile, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday submitted documents of around 20,000 pages in Delhi's Patiala House court in connection with the IRCTC hotel scam case in which Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and 11 others are accused.&nbsp;

The case pertains to alleged irregularities in allotting a contract to a private company for the maintenance of IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Lalu was the railway minister from 2004 to 2009.&nbsp;

In July 2017, the CBI registered a corruption case against Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi and others in the case.&nbsp;

The case pertains to alleged irregularities in allotting a contract to a private company for the maintenance of IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Lalu was the railway minister

RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav, who is serving a prison sentence in the multi-crore fodder scam, has been granted a five-day parole on Wednesday to attend son Tej Pratap Yadav's wedding. He is currently admitted in Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi. Lalu will be flown to Patna this evening. Lalu, who has been convicted in three fodder scam cases by a special CBI court in Ranchi, is currently undergoing treatment at RIMS hospital in the Jharkhand capital. Meanwhile, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday submitted documents of around 20,000 pages in Delhi's Patiala House court in connection with the IRCTC hotel scam case in which Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and 11 others are accused. The case pertains to alleged irregularities in allotting a contract to a private company for the maintenance of IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Lalu was the railway minister from 2004 to 2009. In July 2017, the CBI registered a corruption case against Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi and others in the case.

Lalu granted five-day parole to attend son's wedding

The Income-Tax department has attached a property worth more than Rs 3 crore near Patna, suspected to be a benami asset held by RJD chief Lalu Prasad's family members who are facing investigation in a land-for-hotels scam.

IT department officials have put an attachment notice on the said property in Sheikhpura locality of the state capital.

"The notice of attachment was affixed on the property, estimated to be worth Rs 3.5 crore, in Sheikhpura locality yesterday," a senior IT department official told PTI today.

The official said the property is in the name of a company, named Fairgrow Holding. He said a few members of the Lalu family were directors in the firm "till a few years ago".

He said Lalu's sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap, besides daughters Ragini and Chanda, are no longer directors of the company. "However, notices sent to the company several times were not answered and no other claimant of the property came forward. It suggested the property was a benami holding".

Prasad, a former Bihar chief minister, is currently serving sentences in a number of fodder scam cases.

Members of his family have been named in cases filed by the Enforcement Directorate and the IT department in connection with the land-for-hotels scam.

The scam relates to transfer of prime land properties to Prasad's family by hotelier brothers of Patna in return for getting a contract for running two Railway hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Prasad was the Railway Minister in UPA-I government.

On one such land measuring 3 acres, Bihar's biggest mall is proposed. But the construction was stopped and the land has been attached by the Enforcement Directorate.

The property attached by the Income-Tax department is worth more than Rs 3 crore near Patna

The Income-Tax department has attached a property worth more than Rs 3 crore near Patna, suspected to be a benami asset held by RJD chief Lalu Prasad's family members who are facing investigation in a land-for-hotels scam. IT department officials have put an attachment notice on the said property in Sheikhpura locality of the state capital. "The notice of attachment was affixed on the property, estimated to be worth Rs 3.5 crore, in Sheikhpura locality yesterday," a senior IT department official told PTI today. The official said the property is in the name of a company, named Fairgrow Holding. He said a few members of the Lalu family were directors in the firm "till a few years ago". He said Lalu's sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap, besides daughters Ragini and Chanda, are no longer directors of the company. "However, notices sent to the company several times were not answered and no other claimant of the property came forward. It suggested the property was a benami holding". Prasad, a former Bihar chief minister, is currently serving sentences in a number of fodder scam cases. Members of his family have been named in cases filed by the Enforcement Directorate and the IT department in connection with the land-for-hotels scam. The scam relates to transfer of prime land properties to Prasad's family by hotelier brothers of Patna in return for getting a contract for running two Railway hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Prasad was the Railway Minister in UPA-I government. On one such land measuring 3 acres, Bihar's biggest mall is proposed. But the construction was stopped and the land has been attached by the Enforcement Directorate.

IT department attaches Lalu family's suspected benami property in Patna

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