Mrityunjay Tiwari Resigns, Targets Tejashwi Yadav’s Leadership
PATNA: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has suffered a major political blow in Bihar. One of the party’s most prominent and articulate faces, senior leader and spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari, has resigned from the party. He submitted his formal resignation to the RJD State President, Mangani Lal Mandal. Through his resignation, he has raised serious questions regarding the internal conflicts within the party and the working style of the leadership, creating a crisis for the party led by Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav.
The Pain of Being Disrespected
Mrityunjay Tiwari, who was widely regarded as the 'Brahmin face' of the RJD and the most trusted voice of the party in the media, stated with deep emotion that there is no longer any space for dedicated and loyal workers within the party. He clarified that he took this difficult decision only after feeling repeatedly humiliated.
In his message following the resignation, he stated, "Today, I have resigned from all positions and the primary membership of the RJD. When a dedicated worker is forced to endure constant humiliation, there is no justification for remaining in that party." He added that he remains a servant of the people and will continue to serve them.
Targeting Tejashwi Yadav; Allegations of 'Termites'
Mrityunjay Tiwari’s resignation has brought the internal bitterness of the party out into the public domain. Targeting the party leadership directly, he alleged that Tejashwi Yadav is surrounded by certain individuals who have destroyed the party from within like 'termites'.
Tiwari claimed that he had tried to convey his concerns to senior party leaders and Tejashwi Yadav, but his views were never given importance. His statements suggest that old and loyal leaders are being sidelined, while a group of new 'courtiers' has begun to dominate party decisions. Expressing his sorrow over the state of affairs, he also remarked that even Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi seem helpless in the current party setup.
A Major Crisis for RJD Ahead of Elections
This resignation comes at a critical juncture, with important challenges like the upcoming by-elections approaching. Mrityunjay Tiwari had served as the media in-charge and spokesperson since 2014, defending the Lalu family through the most difficult times. His exit is not just the loss of a prominent figure; it is a significant setback to the RJD's media strategy.
There is intense speculation in political circles that this resignation could trigger further infighting within the party. Some sources indicate that several other leaders are also dissatisfied with the party's direction and may be in contact with other political factions.
What is the Next Step?
When the media questioned him about his next political move after submitting his resignation, Mrityunjay Tiwari kept his cards close to his chest. While he did not confirm joining any other party, his demeanor makes it clear that the chances of his return to the RJD are now virtually non-existent.
Mrityunjay Tiwari's resignation is not merely the departure of a leader; it is a reflection of the deep-seated discontent that has been simmering within the RJD for some time. Tejashwi Yadav, currently away, faces a daunting challenge to mend his fractured house and restore faith among the party workers. Whether this resignation marks the beginning of a larger split in the RJD or if the leadership can contain the damage, only time will tell.
