RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav strongly advocated for his father, Lalu Prasad, to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, emphasising that the former Bihar Chief Minister deserved the honor for his tireless efforts in uplifting the underprivileged sections of society.
Speaking at an event in Sonbarsa, Saharsa district, on the death anniversary of socialist leader Karpoori Thakur, Tejashwi made the statement, underscoring his father's legacy of championing the voiceless.
Tejashwi recounted the historical moment when Karpoori Thakur, during his tenure as Bihar's Chief Minister, had introduced quotas for the backward classes. He pointed out how Thakur faced severe criticism from the BJP and its supporters for his progressive policies.
However, years later, the same party awarded him the Bharat Ratna, demonstrating the lasting influence of socialism, or ‘samajwad,’ Tejashwi remarked.
The RJD leader went on to criticise those who now criticise Lalu Prasad in an attempt to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He predicted that these very individuals would eventually support the Bharat Ratna for Lalu Prasad, who had been a champion of social justice at a time when marginalised communities faced severe discrimination.
He recalled how the depressed classes were once denied basic rights, such as access to wells, new clothes, and even the privilege to sit on a cot.
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Tejashwi also reflected on his father’s close bond with Karpoori Thakur, highlighting that Lalu Prasad was by Thakur’s side during his final moments. He recounted how Thakur passed away with his head resting on Lalu Prasad’s lap, and how Lalu Prasad personally drove the jeep that took Thakur to the hospital.
Addressing recent developments in Bihar, Tejashwi mentioned that his party, upon coming to power, increased quotas for the backward classes, in line with the findings of a caste survey. The survey revealed a significant rise in the population of depressed classes, underscoring the need for higher reservations.
He accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of aligning with the BJP, which, according to him, worked to overturn the hike in reservations via the Patna High Court. Tejashwi criticised the government for vacancies in numerous government posts, where Dalits and backward communities were not receiving their rightful opportunities.
Tejashwi also clarified his stance on ticket distribution for upcoming elections, stressing that aspirants would not be selected solely based on the recommendations of political leaders. He emphasised that the responsibility of forming the next government in Bihar lay with him, and he would ensure that only ideologically committed individuals would be considered for candidacy.
In response to Tejashwi’s remarks, the JD(U), led by Nitish Kumar, mocked the idea of Lalu Prasad receiving the Bharat Ratna. JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar took a swipe at the RJD leader, suggesting that if corruption and prison sentences could be rewarded, then Lalu Prasad might indeed be a candidate for such an honor.
Lalu Prasad has faced multiple convictions related to the fodder scam and other controversies, including the land-for-hotels and land-for-jobs scams, which occurred during his tenure as the Railway Minister.
Also Read: 'Faaltu hai Kumbh': Lalu Yadav on pilgrim rush, New Delhi stampede
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