Shyam Rajak Rejoins Janata Dal (United)

Former Bihar Minister Shyam Rajak has rejoined the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, just weeks after resigning from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Rajak, who previously served in both JD(U) and RJD, criticized the RJD for its alleged corruption and lack of opportunities, stating he felt ‘stifled and insulted’ during his time there. His return is seen as a strategic move to strengthen JD(U)'s support among Mahadalits in Bihar, a demographic Kumar has focused on. Rajak expressed intentions to contest the Assembly elections from Phulwari Sharif in 2025, a seat he has represented multiple times. This political shift follows his resignation from RJD, where he felt cheated over seat allocations in the 2020 elections. JD(U) leaders welcomed his return, emphasizing his grassroots connections and experience as an asset to the party.