Ambedkar Photo Controversy: A Turning Point In BJP-RJD Battle For Bihar Election

In Bihar's volatile political climate, even a birthday can turn into a battlefield. In June 2025, a video from RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's 78th birthday celebration sparked widespread anger after a portrait of Dr B R Ambedkar was seen placed near his feet. The image, seen by many as disrespectful to the Dalit icon and architect of the Indian Constitution, snowballed into a full-blown controversy just months before the state assembly elections.

BJP Seizes the Moment

The Bharatiya Janata Party wasted no time in capitalising on the video. The party's leaders across the state and at the Centre accused Lalu and the RJD of insulting Dalit sentiments and showing disregard for Ambedkar's legacy. Union Ministers and Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister demanded an apology and described the act as unpardonable. The outrage resonated with Dalit groups, many of whom voiced their anger online and at grassroots meetings. The Bihar State Scheduled Caste Commission issued a notice to Lalu, warning of potential legal action under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The BJP maintained that the episode reflects the RJD's symbolic rather than sincere commitment to Ambedkar's ideals. As public anger simmered, the party used the controversy to position itself as the true custodian of Dalit pride, highlighting its efforts to build Ambedkar memorials and implement pro-Dalit policies across the country.

RJD on the Defensive

Tejashwi Yadav and senior RJD leaders responded by accusing the BJP of politicising an innocent moment and pointed to Lalu's past contributions to promoting Ambedkar's ideology in Bihar. Subash Yadav, Lalu's brother-in-law, blamed the supporter who placed the photo and said it was not Lalu's fault. Senior leader Manoj Jha dismissed the outrage as political posturing.

However, the damage was done. The BJP kept the narrative alive, questioning whether someone who truly respected Ambedkar would allow such a lapse in protocol. The saffron party continued its Dalit outreach, hoping to erode RJD's support among the community, especially in rural and semi-urban constituencies.

What could have passed as a minor oversight has now become a defining episode in Bihar's election season. And while RJD calls it a political hit job, the BJP has successfully turned it into a campaign talking point-framing itself as the party that doesn't just speak of Ambedkar but truly defends his honour.