Bihar, a state long defined by political turbulence and caste-driven elections, is now grappling with another pressing issue—the unchecked rise of dynastic politics. The public clash between Rohini Acharya (daughter of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav) and Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav (Lalu’s son) has spotlighted how political inheritance overshadows merit in Bihar’s power structure. As the Yadav siblings spar, voters are left wondering if competence still matters.
The Feud That Revealed Deeper Fault Lines
The rift began when Rohini Acharya, though politically inactive, openly criticized Tejashwi’s leadership on social media. She accused him of ignoring grassroots workers and relying on a closed circle of advisors. Tejashwi, seen as Bihar’s future leader, retaliated, calling her claims “baseless” and defending the party’s collective decision-making.
This isn’t just family drama—it reflects a systemic issue: power passed by bloodline, not capability. At 34, Tejashwi holds the Deputy CM role despite minimal governance experience, while Rohini’s outburst mirrors RJD cadres’ frustration over the party becoming a family monopoly.
Is Dynastic Politics Ingrained in Bihar’s DNA?
Bihar’s political history is littered with dynasties:
– RJD: Founded on social justice, it’s now a Yadav family enterprise—Lalu’s wife Rabri Devi became CM without experience, and sons Tejashwi/Tej Pratap dominate.
– BJP-JD(U): Nitish Kumar (JD(U)) and BJP also rely on legacy leaders (e.g., Sushil Kumar Modi) or dynasts.
– Congress/LJP: Follow the same trend, prioritizing surnames over skill.
Why Dynasties Thrive in Bihar
- Caste Loyalty: Surnames command pre-built vote banks.
- Weak Party Democracy: Leadership is centralized, blocking outsiders.
- Voter Mindset: Familiar names are perceived as “safe” choices.
The High Price of Political Dynasties
- Talent Suppression: Competent leaders outside families hit glass ceilings.
- Poor Governance: Leaders prioritize control over development (see Bihar’s struggling healthcare, education).
- Accountability Gap: Inherited power reduces performance pressure.
Can Bihar Break the Cycle?
Solutions demand systemic shifts:
✅ Intra-Party Elections: Democratize leadership selection.
✅ Voter Education: Reward performance, not pedigree.
✅ New Movements: Merit-based parties could challenge the status quo.
Conclusion: Bihar’s Crossroads
The Acharya-Yadav clash isn’t just a family fight—it’s a wake-up call. As 2024 elections approach, Bihar must choose: Will it reward lineage or competence? The future of India’s third-most populous state hangs in the balance.
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