To Counter Pappu Yadav, RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav Backs NDA Candidate in Purnea

Purnea: In a surprising turn of events, Bihar’s Purnea constituency has become the focal point of political dynamics as the electoral battle intensifies. Former Deputy CM and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, in a recent public rally, made an unusual appeal to the voters. While urging support for RJD’s candidate Bima Bharti, Yadav also endorsed the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate, emphasizing the importance of choosing either alliance over independent candidate Pappu Yadav.

Purnea, historically a politically subdued constituency, has now emerged as a battleground, witnessing a three-cornered clash. RJD’s Bima Bharti is competing against the incumbent MP Santosh Kushwaha from the Janata Dal (United) and independent candidate Pappu Yadav. The latter, a former RJD leader, has stirred the political landscape with his independent candidacy, garnering significant local support.

Yadav’s endorsement of the NDA candidate reflects the strategic manoeuvring aimed at undermining Pappu Yadav’s electoral prospects. The contest has escalated due to Pappu Yadav’s dramatic entry into the fray after being denied tickets by both RJD and Congress. His proactive engagement during the Covid pandemic and Bihar floods has bolstered his local popularity, posing a formidable challenge to established parties.

Pappu Yadav’s complex relationship with RJD Supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav adds another layer of intrigue to the electoral dynamics. From former allies to political adversaries, their history encapsulates cooperation, conflicts, and eventual estrangement. Pappu Yadav’s expulsion from RJD in 2014, followed by the formation of his Jan Adhikar Party, signifies the fractious nature of Bihar’s political landscape.

Amidst the political manoeuvring, Pappu Yadav’s efforts to align with Congress and RJD have faced obstacles, with RJD opting to field Bima Bharti instead. Despite seeking support from Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, Pappu Yadav remains determined to challenge the established political order in Bihar.