Sat Jan 24 15:58:25 UTC 2026: ### Headline: RJD MLA Publicly Criticizes Party Leadership Over Bihar Election Debacle

The Story:

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Bhai Virendra has ignited a controversy within the party by publicly questioning the leadership’s decisions regarding ticket distribution in the recent Bihar Assembly election. Just a day before the party’s national executive meeting, Mr. Virendra’s remarks, captured in a viral video, allege that “outsiders” were favored over “deserving and hard-working” party members, leading to the RJD’s significant loss of seats. The party saw its seat count plummet from 75 in the 2020 election to a mere 25 in 2025. The criticism centers around the denial of a ticket to sitting MLA Vijay Mandal from the Dinara Assembly constituency, replaced by Rajesh Yadav.

Mr. Virendra also indirectly targeted Sudhakar Singh, son of former RJD State president Jagdanand Singh, suggesting his influence in ticket allocation in the Shahabad region contributed to the poor results. While Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of the Opposition, is believed to have made the final decisions, the public criticism highlights deep-seated tensions within the party as Mr. Yadav is expected to be named the RJD’s new national president.

Key Points:

  • RJD MLA Bhai Virendra publicly criticized the party’s ticket distribution for the 2025 Bihar Assembly election.
  • The RJD’s seat count fell from 75 in 2020 to 25 in 2025.
  • Mr. Virendra questioned why Vijay Mandal was denied a ticket from the Dinara Assembly constituency, replaced by Rajesh Yadav.
  • Sudhakar Singh’s influence in ticket allocation in the Shahabad region was indirectly criticized.
  • Tejashwi Yadav is expected to be named the party’s new national president on January 25, 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • The RJD is facing internal strife following a disastrous performance in the 2025 Bihar Assembly election.
  • Ticket distribution is a significant point of contention, with accusations of favoritism and disregard for loyal party workers.
  • The leadership of Tejashwi Yadav is under scrutiny, even as he is poised to become the party’s national president.
  • The controversy suggests a power struggle within the RJD, potentially impacting the party’s future direction.
  • The public airing of grievances signals a lack of internal mechanisms to resolve disputes.

Impact Analysis:

The public criticism leveled by Bhai Virendra could have significant long-term implications for the RJD. The controversy has exposed deep-seated divisions within the party and threatens to undermine Tejashwi Yadav’s authority as he assumes the role of national president.

  • Weakened Leadership: The challenge to Yadav’s decision-making on ticket allocation weakens his image as a strong leader.
  • Fractured Party Unity: The public dispute undermines party unity and could lead to further factionalism.
  • Erosion of Public Trust: Internal discord can erode public trust and support for the party, potentially impacting future electoral prospects.
  • Re-Evaluation of Strategies: The poor electoral performance will force the party to re-evaluate its strategies, potentially leading to shifts in policy and alliances.
  • Increased Scrutiny: The leadership transition is now under greater scrutiny, with potential rivals looking to capitalize on perceived weaknesses.

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