In a high‑stakes showdown that could reshape Bihar’s political landscape, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) is set to decide its next working president at a national executive meeting in Patna on January 25. The decision pits Tejashwi Yadav, the party’s charismatic youth face, against Misa Bharti, the eldest of Lalu Prasad Yadav’s nine children and a sitting Lok Sabha MP. With Lalu’s health and age raising questions about succession, the outcome will determine who steers the party’s day‑to‑day operations and its strategy ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
Background / Context
The RJD, founded by Lalu Prasad Yadav in 1997 after a split from the Janata Dal, has long been a dominant force in Bihar politics. Yet the party’s fortunes have fluctuated sharply. In the 2020 assembly elections, the RJD won 75 seats, but the November 2024 polls saw a steep decline to just 25 seats, a loss of 50 seats that left the party scrambling for relevance. Tejashwi Yadav, who served as deputy chief minister and led the party’s campaign, has been blamed for the poor performance, while Misa Bharti has been seen as a potential alternative who could bring a fresh image.
Beyond electoral setbacks, the RJD faces internal pressures. Lalu’s advancing age and reported health issues have prompted senior leaders to discuss a “second line of leadership” to manage the party’s day‑to‑day affairs. The national executive meeting is therefore not just a routine gathering; it is a pivotal moment that could redefine the party’s hierarchy and its future trajectory.
Key Developments
According to a spokesperson for the RJD, Chitaranjan Gagan, the national executive meeting will be held on January 25 in Patna. “Yes, the national executive meeting will be held on January 25. Besides Lalu ji, all top leaders are expected to be in attendance. Issues that are deemed important by the leadership may be taken up for discussion,” Gagan told PTI, underscoring the meeting’s significance.
Sources close to the party say that the primary agenda will be the appointment of a “working national president.” The role would effectively act as the day‑to‑day chief executive, allowing Lalu to focus on strategic decisions while delegating routine management. The two main contenders are:
- Tejashwi Yadav – Former deputy chief minister, current leader of the opposition in Bihar, and the party’s face in the last assembly elections. He is the youngest of Lalu’s nine children and has a strong base among youth and urban voters.
- Misa Bharti – The eldest sibling, a Lok Sabha MP from Pataliputra, and a vocal advocate for women’s representation. She has been positioned by some party members as a symbol of a more inclusive RJD.
In addition to the leadership tussle, the meeting may also address the replacement of Mangani Lal Mandal as the RJD’s Bihar unit president. Mandal, a former JD(U) member, has struggled to make inroads among the Extremely Backward Classes (EBC) voters, a key demographic for the party.
Another contentious issue is the narrative that the RJD is a patriarchal organization. A party leader remarked, “It is not a question of lack of trust in Tejashwi’s leadership. The fact is, the BJP‑led NDA, our rival, has for long been trying to paint the RJD as a patriarchal organisation in which women are denied their due.” This rhetoric has intensified after Rohini Acharya’s outbursts post‑polls, where she alleged abuse and a “slipper” being thrown at her during a confrontation with RJD aides.
Impact Analysis
The decision on the working president will have far‑reaching implications for the RJD’s electoral prospects, internal cohesion, and public image.
Electoral Strategy – A clear leadership structure is essential for coordinating campaign efforts across Bihar’s 90 assembly constituencies. If Tejashwi is chosen, the party may lean on his youthful appeal and his experience as a former deputy chief minister. Conversely, Misa’s selection could signal a shift toward a more gender‑balanced image, potentially attracting voters disillusioned with male‑dominated politics.
Party Unity – The leadership contest risks deepening factionalism. A decision perceived as unfair could alienate either side, leading to resignations or defections. The party’s ability to present a united front will be tested in the lead‑up to the 2026 elections.
Public Perception – The RJD’s brand has been tarnished by allegations of nepotism and internal strife. A transparent and merit‑based appointment could restore credibility, while a perceived power grab might reinforce negative stereotypes.
For students and young voters, the outcome will shape the political discourse around leadership, representation, and accountability. A leadership that prioritizes youth engagement and inclusive policies could inspire greater political participation among the next generation.
Expert Insights / Tips
Political analyst Dr. Anil Kumar from the Indian Institute of Political Studies notes, “The RJD’s survival hinges on its ability to adapt to changing voter expectations. A working president who can bridge the gap between traditional support bases and emerging demographics will be crucial.”
For students and aspiring political activists, the RJD’s internal dynamics offer several lessons:
- Merit Over Lineage – While family ties remain influential, performance and public service record increasingly matter to voters.
- Inclusive Leadership – Embracing gender diversity and addressing caste dynamics can broaden a party’s appeal.
- Transparent Decision‑Making – Clear communication about leadership choices builds trust among party workers and the electorate.
Political science professor Meera Patel advises, “Students should analyze how leadership changes affect policy priorities. For instance, a younger leader might push for technology‑driven governance, while a senior leader may focus on traditional welfare schemes.”
Looking Ahead
The January 25 meeting will set the tone for the RJD’s campaign strategy for the 2026 assembly elections. If Tejashwi Yadav secures the working president role, the party may intensify its outreach to urban youth and leverage his experience in legislative debates. A Misa Bharti appointment could lead to a rebranding effort, emphasizing women’s empowerment and social justice.
Regardless of the outcome, the RJD will need to address the following:
- Re‑energize its grassroots organization to counter the JD(U) and BJP’s growing influence.
- Develop a coherent policy platform that resonates with both traditional supporters and new voters.
- Implement robust internal governance mechanisms to prevent factional disputes.
As Bihar’s political calendar fills with rallies, candidate selections, and alliance negotiations, the RJD’s leadership decision will be a barometer for the party’s future viability. Observers will watch closely to see whether the party can transform its internal challenges into a competitive advantage.
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