BJP masking its failures with ‘so-called Hindutva’, says Lalu

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad on Sunday (July 5, 2026) slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) saying the ruling party is masking the government’s failures by “so-called Hindutva”. He alleged that compromised constitutional institutions, aggressive markets, unrestrained use of capital to purchase voters and elected representatives, and right-wing reactionary politics are posing challenges to democracy.“Issues such as the participation of the backward classes, equality in education and employment opportunities, the rights and safety of minorities, uneven development, and the government’s failures are being masked by a so-called Hindutva,” he said in a letter to the people of Bihar on the RJD’s foundation day. Taking a dig at the BJP, Mr. Prasad said an analysis of election results from various States reveals that the BJP is attempting to push the country backward through authoritarian means by capturing institutions and sidestepping the Constitution.In his letter, Mr. Prasad said the RJD’s priority and commitment have always been to champion the cause of the poor, the aggrieved, the marginalised, the weak, and the downtrodden.Celebrating the 30th foundation day of his party, Mr. Prasad said July 5 holds special significance for the crores of people in Bihar. He said that even in changing times, RJD’s politics remains fundamentally opposed to socio-economic inequality and communalism.“Our model of development is not limited to gleaming airports, lavish malls, or glittering hotels; rather, we are committed to ensuring the participation of the poor in every aspect of development. Our goal is to bring qualitative and positive changes in the lives of the labourers and artisans who built these malls, hotels, and airports, as well as the employees working for their families. We will accept nothing less than this,” Mr. Prasad said.Mr. Prasad added that with many senior colleagues, the RJD was founded in 1997 to secure the rights and entitlements of the poor, the exploited, the downtrodden, and the minorities. “This is no ordinary day; it marks the moment when the course and direction of politics in Bihar and the nation were transformed,” he said.He said words will fall short to describe the struggle, sacrifice, and selflessness demonstrated by the party for the welfare of the poor and the common people.“The party’s expansion has been made possible solely through the blood and sweat of the dedicated workers. It is the result of our workers’ energy, firm resolve, and dedication that the RJD continues to move forward with increasing strength. I salute, from the bottom of my heart, all the leaders, colleagues, and workers who have stood by the party through every phase,” Mr. Prasad said.He also said that it is a struggle between the ‘powerful’ and the ‘helpless’ and a battle against the ‘new nexus’ between the Sangh and corporate houses. Mr. Prasad added that it is a fight for the very survival of the poor, the farmers, and the marginalised in India. He urged them to set aside minor concerns and differences and unite to carry the struggle.Later in the day, RJD’s National Working President and Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, interacted with the party workers and leader through virtual mode.Mr. Yadav was out of Patna, due to which he could not attend the function at the party office where State president Mangani Lal Mandal and other leaders were present.“Under the guidance of our esteemed National President Lalu Prasad ji, we will continuously struggle for the interests of the deprived, the neglected, the poor, farmers, employees, and youth and build a developed, happy, and peaceful society,” Mr. Yadav said during the interaction.