Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Accuses RJD Leader of Contract Irregularities During Mahagathbandhan Government

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has accused RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav of significant irregularities in contract awards. These allegations pertain to Yadav's tenure as the head of the road construction department in the Mahagathbandhan government about a decade ago. Sinha, who now oversees the same department, highlighted these issues during a press briefing.

During the two-year rule of the RJD-led government from 2015, Sinha alleged that excess payments were made for certain contracts without proper verification. The Mahagathbandhan was a coalition formed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) and RJD, led by Lalu Prasad, which won the 2015 assembly elections. Tejashwi Yadav, making his electoral debut then, was appointed deputy CM until Kumar left the alliance in July 2017.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct

Sinha claimed that an investigation revealed an overpayment of Rs 26 crore to a contractor involved in road expansion projects. This contractor worked on the Gaya-Bhinds-Chamandih-Vazirganj and Tapovan road projects. "Massive irregularities were committed while awarding contracts of the RCD during that period," Sinha stated. He assured that those shielding the contractor would face consequences.

The deputy CM announced that a comprehensive investigation is underway and steps to blacklist the contractor have begun. He further alleged that RJD leaders have a history of corrupt practices. These accusations have sparked political tensions between the ruling party and the opposition.

RJD's Response to Accusations

In response, Mrityunjay Tiwary, spokesperson for RJD’s Bihar unit, dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. He suggested that BJP leaders are intimidated by Tejashwi Yadav's influence. "The Mahagathbandhan government did a lot of people-friendly works and took major decisions concerning people," Tiwary stated, expressing confidence in facing any investigations.

Tiwary emphasized that the RJD is not afraid of any probes initiated by the NDA government. He maintained that their past governance focused on public welfare and significant decision-making for people's benefit. The ongoing political discourse highlights deep-rooted rivalries between Bihar's major political factions.

The unfolding events underscore persistent political friction in Bihar's landscape. Allegations of corruption continue to be a contentious issue among political parties. As investigations proceed, both sides remain firm in their positions, reflecting broader challenges within Bihar's political dynamics.