Patna, July 5 (IANS) The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) was observing its 30th foundation day on Sunday, commemorating three decades since its formation by Lalu Prasad Yadav on July 5, 1997.
Although the party formally celebrated its foundation day on July 1 this year, Lalu Prasad issued a special message to the people of Bihar on the occasion, recalling the party’s journey and outlining its political vision.
In a message shared on social media, Lalu Prasad Yadav said that July 5 holds special significance because it marks the beginning of a movement launched, along with senior colleagues, to fight for the rights of the poor, the exploited, the marginalised, and minority communities.
He said the RJD was founded with the objective of challenging social and economic inequalities and ensuring justice for those left behind.
Paying tribute to party workers, Lalu said countless RJD members have demonstrated extraordinary sacrifice and dedication in the struggle to eliminate inequality in Bihar.
He credited the party’s growth over the past three decades to the hard work and commitment of grassroots workers, stating that the organisation has expanded through their blood and sweat.
He expressed gratitude and respect for every dedicated leader and worker associated with the party.
Highlighting the RJD’s ideological commitment, Lalu asserted that the party’s politics has always stood against socio-economic inequality.
He said development should not be measured only through modern infrastructure such as airports, luxury malls, or high-end hotels, but by ensuring that the poorest and most marginalised citizens receive an equal share in the state’s progress and opportunities.
The RJD chief further said that the party has consistently worked to make Indian democracy more inclusive by fighting entrenched inequalities in the country’s social and political systems.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to the ideals of Ram Manohar Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Karpoori Thakur, and B. R. Ambedkar, adding that the next phase of the struggle must focus on the economic and psychological empowerment of marginalised communities.
Turning to the current political scenario, Lalu claimed that recent state election outcomes indicate that the Bharatiya Janata Party is taking the country in an authoritarian direction.
He said the RJD cannot accept such a situation and urged party leaders and workers to prepare themselves for what he described as a historic political challenge.
He emphasised that the RJD should not function merely as an election-oriented organisation but must remain actively engaged with its support base and progressive sections of society throughout the year.
According to him, the party must assure people that it is capable of fighting for their interests both inside Parliament and through public movements on the streets.
Concluding his message, Lalu described the current political struggle as a battle between insensitive affluence and conscious destitution.
He also alleged an unconstitutional functioning of constitutional institutions and criticised what he termed an alliance between the Sangh and corporate interests.
Calling for unity, he urged party members to set aside minor differences and work together to confront the challenges ahead.
–IANS
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