Tejashwi: Won’t Stop Speaking Truth Despite FIR
RJD leader slams BJP over Maharashtra case, vows resilience.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav declared he is “not afraid” of a First Information Report (FIR) filed against him in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, vowing to continue speaking the truth. The FIR, lodged by local BJP MLA Milind Narote, targets a social media post by Yadav on X, where he called Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promises to Bihar “jumla” (rhetoric) ahead of Modi’s visit to the state on Friday. The case, filed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly provocative remarks, has sparked a fierce political row.
Speaking to PTI Video in Katihar during the ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’ alongside Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Yadav dismissed the FIR’s impact. “Who is afraid of an FIR? Is ‘jumla’ an objectionable word? I was telling the truth, and I’ll keep doing so, no matter how many cases they file,” said the former Bihar deputy chief minister. The Yatra, aimed at addressing local issues, saw Yadav and Gandhi engaging with fishermen and makhana (fox nut) farmers in Katihar, joined by Independent MP Rajesh Ranjan (Pappu Yadav).
Makhana, a key north Bihar produce, has gained attention since the Union Budget announced a dedicated board to boost its production. Modi, who has promoted makhana as a “super food,” encouraged athletes to try it during the Khelo India tournament in Bihar earlier this year. The Yatra, highlighting local economic concerns, is set to conclude in Purnea, 30 km from Katihar.
Also Read: Tejashwi Yadav Faces FIR Over PM Modi Post
Yadav’s aide, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Yadav, condemned the BJP, challenging them to file an FIR in Bihar, where they share power. “Why target Tejashwi in far-off states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam? If they’re bold, let them act here,” he said. Senior Congress leader Akhilesh Yadav, also part of the Yatra, labeled the FIR “political vendetta,” asserting that their political lineage, rooted in resisting British rule, would not be intimidated by such tactics.
The controversy underscores rising tensions between the opposition and the BJP, with Yadav’s supporters framing the FIR as an attempt to silence dissent. As the Yatra continues to spotlight local grievances, Tejashwi’s defiance signals a broader fight against perceived political overreach, keeping Bihar’s political landscape charged.
Also Read: RJD MLAs Share Stage With PM Modi At Bihar Rally, BJP Clarifies Invite Row
