BJP targets RJD over IRCTC scam ahead of Bihar assembly polls

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday launched a sharp critique of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), alleging involvement in scams, manipulation of government contracts, and taking land from people under the pretext of providing jobs.

The remarks came after a special court in New Delhi framed charges against RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi, and their son Tejashwi Yadav, the current Leader of Opposition in Bihar, in connection with the alleged IRCTC scam. The court’s action sets the stage for a trial ahead of the state assembly elections scheduled for November 6 and 11, with results to be declared on November 14.

Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad, at a press conference, criticised Tejashwi Yadav, noting that the charges filed under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code relate to cheating. Prasad alleged that RJD leaders had acquired land from poor citizens by promising employment, questioning whether such actions represented “social justice.”

He further cited instances from Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure, including “eating fodder” and “drinking bitumen,” and accused the party of manipulating government contracts. Prasad appealed to voters not to rely on Tejashwi Yadav’s promises of jobs, warning that citizens risked losing land without receiving employment.

The BJP’s statements reflect heightened political scrutiny as Bihar approaches its two-phase assembly elections, bringing attention to both governance records and ongoing legal proceedings involving prominent political figures.