Tej Pratap Yadav Confirms 2024 Candidacy from Mahua, Addresses Party Disputes and Vision for Youth

Senior RJD leader and former Bihar minister, Tej Pratap Yadav, has officially declared that he will contest the upcoming elections from the Mahua constituency. When asked about the certainty of his decision and the possibility of contesting from another seat, Tej Pratap responded emphatically, “Mahua is fixed. My match, my tournament is set there — I will contest from Mahua.”

Tej Pratap also addressed comments made in a previous interview, in which he insisted he would “never give up the green cap” associated with the party. On being seen wearing a yellow cap instead, he stated, “There is no difference between yellow and green. Our flag has both colors — green symbolizes growth, while yellow represents faith and Lord Krishna. I embrace both together.”

Asked about his remarks regarding the possibility of contesting against his younger brother, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, Tej Pratap remained non-committal: “That only time will tell. If people stand against us, we’ll do what is necessary. But my focus is on Mahua. I’ve worked in Mahua, helped establish a medical college there. My goal is to continue serving that constituency, especially by advocating for an engineering college.”

On family support for his campaign, Tej Pratap said, “Anyone who wishes to come for the campaign is welcome — whether it’s my father, my mother, or any family member. If someone wants to join, they’ll come; if not, that’s their choice. You can’t force anyone.”

He revealed that he currently has little to no communication with his mother, veteran politician Rabri Devi, and declined to comment further on family interactions.

Recent internal party conflicts were also raised, particularly after Tej Pratap criticized RJD MLA Bhai Virendra for his inappropriate remarks and suggested party action. “If anyone is found guilty—be it Bhai Virendra or anyone else—they should face consequences, even jail, according to the law. There are many such elements within the party, but I don’t want to discuss organizational matters at this time.”

Speaking about his recently formed political team, which is symbolized by the yellow cap, Tej Pratap described “Team Tej Pratap” as a platform uniting youth for employment, better education, and new institutions. “The youth don’t want to migrate for jobs anymore. We have already set up a medical college in Mahua, and with more educational institutes, local youth can gain both education and employment without leaving Bihar.”

Tej Pratap’s supporters in Mahua have even called for him to serve as Chief Minister one day. He replied, “It’s up to the public. The people choose, they build leaders, and they remove them too. My only desire is to serve, to live among the people, and keep working for their welfare. As for positions and posts, those come and go.”

With a focus on development, youth empowerment, and educational reform in Mahua, Tej Pratap Yadav is set for a high-stakes contest — one that may shape the future political landscape in Bihar.