A series of cryptic tweets and Facebook posts by the older son of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav on Saturday has brought into focus possible dissension in the party. Tej Pratap Yadav posted messages in Hindi on Facebook and Twitter that seemed to hint that he was seeking to “withdraw” from active politics and cede control of the party to Lalu's designated successor and his younger brother, Tejashwi.
Using mythological idioms, Tej Pratap wrote he wanted to seat “Arjuna on the throne at Hastinapur and go to Dwarka.” He also referred to rumour mongers who would be upset that they won't be able to project him as the “king-maker”.
In another social media post, Tej Pratap said the RJD and its partners had the responsibility of creating a new government in 2019 but they should be careful of the role of “anti-social” elements who would seek to undermine their unity.
Speaking to reporters later, Tej Pratap claimed Tejashwi had allowed the entry of lumpen elements into the party.
However, in a likely reference to the BJP, Tej Pratap, in a third social media post, has warned “Sanghis” against spreading rumours.
While Tejashwi has been Lalu's designated successor, there have been intermittent reports of rivalry between the brothers as Tej Pratap has sought to build his support base. Tej Pratap, while seen as being more 'unassuming' than his more charismatic sibling, uses Lalu's rustic style of speech to woo supporters.