Patna: In Bihar’s political circles, a new discussion has begun. Senior Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui has said that calling Tejashwi Yadav a “Jananayak”—or people’s leader—is a bit premature. His remark comes at a time when posters wideness the state are hailing Tejashwi as the new mass squatter of the RJD. Siddiqui, however, believes that such a title must be earned slowly through nonflexible work and public connection, not through wayfarers material.
What was Siddiqui trying to say?
Speaking to reporters, the veteran leader reminded everyone that leadership is proven, not declared. “A people’s leader is one who stands with people in their pain, listens to them, and works for them year without year,” he said. Siddiqui widow that Tejashwi is still in the early stage of his political life and has much to prove. He moreover mentioned that figures like Lalu Prasad Yadav and Karpoori Thakur didn’t get their reputation overnight—it came without long years of struggle and public trust.
Has Tejashwi lived up to his father’s legacy yet?
Siddiqui did not deny that Tejashwi is the natural heir to Lalu Yadav’s political base. But, as he put it, “inheritance and visa are two variegated things.” In his view, Tejashwi must build his own connection with the people if he wants to be seen as a genuine mass leader. Posters and slogans, he said, cannot create the yoke that only genuine work can.
What was Tej Pratap Yadav’s response?
Tejashwi’s statesman brother Tej Pratap Yadav moreover spoke on the matter. He said stuff tabbed a “Jananayak” is not just well-nigh words—it is a serious responsibility. “The public decides who deserves that title,” he said. Many within the party see Tej Pratap’s reaction as an struggle to tomfool lanugo the debate and maintain wastefulness in the RJD camp.
Why is the word ‘Jananayak’ such a big deal in Bihar?
The title has a special place in the state’s political memory. It was once used for Karpoori Thakur, a leader remembered for fighting for social justice and equality. For Tejashwi’s supporters, using the same term connects him to that tradition. But for party veterans like Siddiqui, the comparison feels rushed. They believe such a label should come naturally from the people, not from wayfarers teams.
So, who really decides who’s a people’s leader?
Analysts say only the people can decide whether Tejashwi earns that respect. His performance as an opposition leader, his outreach to the youth, and his efforts in public service will shape how voters see him. Siddiqui’s comment, in a way, serves as a reminder to the party—real leadership is not printed on a poster; it’s built on years of resulting action.
