An Old Bond Remembered in Madhepura
Politics in Bihar often brings back stories of friendship, loyalty, and rivalry. Recently, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Shivananad Tiwari reminded Lalu Prasad Yadav of an old “debt” owed to the late Sharad Yadav. His reminder came after RJD denied a ticket to Sharad Yadav’s son, Shantanu Yadav, for the Madhepura assembly seat. Tiwari said Lalu could have repaid Sharad Yadav’s contribution to his political rise by giving his son a chance.
Sharad Yadav, though originally from Madhya Pradesh, made Bihar his political home and played a major role in shaping Lalu’s early career. Tiwari’s post reflected both emotional respect and political disappointment. Shantanu’s mother, Rekha Yadav, also expressed her sadness over the denial, saying the family had expected Tejashwi Yadav to honor Lalu’s old friendship with Sharad.
How Sharad Helped Lalu Rise to Power
To understand this “debt,” one must go back to 1990, when Lalu Prasad Yadav became chief minister of Bihar. After the Janata Dal won the state elections, Prime Minister V.P. Singh wanted Dalit leader Ram Sundar Das to take the top post. But Lalu, backed by his popularity among backward castes, was determined to contest.
Devi Lal, another senior leader, sent Sharad Yadav and Mulayam Singh Yadav to Bihar to support Lalu’s campaign for leadership. Their efforts helped Lalu secure victory in the legislative party election. On March 10, 1990, he took oath as Bihar’s chief minister — a moment that began a new political chapter for the state.
Without Sharad Yadav’s strong backing, Lalu’s rise might not have been possible. Sharad later formed his own party, the Janata Dal (United), and stood by Nitish Kumar until 2016. In his later years, he merged his outfit with RJD, returning to the camp where it had all begun.
As Madhepura watches another election season unfold, the memory of this old alliance and the “forgotten debt” once again reminds Bihar of its rich political history.
