Bihar polls: Tejashwi confirms Muslim representation in Deputy CM list
What's the story
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and the Opposition's Chief Ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav has confirmed that if the Mahagathbandhan comes to power in Bihar, it will have multiple Deputy Chief Ministers. In an exclusive interview with India Today's Rajdeep Sardesai, Yadav confirmed that one of them would be from the Muslim community. This comes after Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahani was projected as a Deputy CM candidate for the Mahagathbandhan.
Inclusive governance
Multiple Deputy CMs, including Dalit and Muslim representatives
The demand for a Deputy CM from the Muslim community has gained support from Congress leaders, an ally in the Mahagathbandhan. When asked about this in the interview, Yadav said, "Yes, definitely," without going into details. He further confirmed that there would be multiple Deputy CMs, including representatives from Dalit and Muslim communities.
Fair representation
Yadav attempts to move beyond traditional my image
Yadav said that the announcement of multiple Deputy CMs was made earlier. He quoted Ashok Gehlot, saying concerns from various sections would be addressed. "We will take everyone along, and everyone will get a fair chance of representation," he added. This statement indicates an attempt to move beyond the traditional Muslim-Yadav (MY) image of the RJD.
Ticket distribution
Yadav slams BJP over representation talks
Yadav also slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for talking about representation. He said it is the Mahagathbandhan that has ensured inclusivity in ticket distribution. "This time, if anyone has given tickets to minorities, it is the RJD and the Mahagathbandhan," he said.
NDA response
NDA reaches out to Muslims
Meanwhile, the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has also reached out to the Muslim community. They claim that it is Janata Dal (United) and its allies who have genuinely stood by Muslims in Bihar. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar alleged opposition leaders were using tactics to woo minorities but failing to provide meaningful representation. He accused them of treating Muslims as a vote bank without giving them any real share in power.