On RJD’s 30th foundation day, Lalu Prasad says constitutional institution compromised

On the occasion of party’s foundation day, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief Lalu Prasad wrote a letter addressing the people of Bihar asserting that the RJD’s priority and commitment have always been to champion the cause of the poor, the aggrieved, the marginalized, the weak, and the downtrodden.

He extended the greetings to the people of Bihar on the 30th foundation day of the RJD saying that the July 5th holds special significance for the crores of people in Bihar. Mr. Prasad explained 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 wrote in the letter.

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,” Mr. Prasad wrote.

He said that words will fall short if he will describe the struggles, sacrifices, 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.

Attacking ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mr. Prasad alleged that compromised constitutional institutions, aggressive markets, the unrestrained use of capital to purchase not just voters but elected representatives, and right-wing reactionary politics have posed numerous challenges to the very existence of the 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,” Mr. Prasad alleged.  

Taking a dig at the ruling party, Mr. Prasad further said that an analysis of election results from various States reveals that the BJP is attempting to push the country backward through authoritarian means by capturing constitutional institutions and sidelining the Constitution itself.

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 marginalized in India. He urged to set aside minor concerns and differences, and unite to carry the struggle.

Later in the day, RJD National Working President Tejashwi Yadav will address the party workers at its headquarters in Patna.