23 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Polity & GovernanceSocial IssuesNEWS

Tejashwi Yadav criticizes Nitish Kumar government over Constitution

Tejashwi Yadav accuses ruling parties of conspiring to destroy the Constitution.

Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, alleged that the Nitish Kumar government is conspiring to destroy the Constitution. Yadav accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of promoting hatred and weakening the country. He highlighted the caste survey conducted during the Mahagathbandhan government. Yadav further accused the current government of depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations.

Yadav stated that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has ruled Bihar for 21 years, during which Bihar has become the poorest state in the country. He claimed that Bihar tops the charts in unemployment, migration, and poverty, while lagging in investment, per capita income, education, health, and sports. He also criticized the Chief Minister’s leadership, alleging administrative inaction amid rising crime, including incidents of murder, rape, and gang rape.

Earlier, Yadav had dubbed Chief Minister Nitish Kumar a "puppet CM" run by "corrupt officials," sparking heated exchanges in the Bihar Assembly. Nitish Kumar questioned Yadav about allegedly paying six MLAs in 2024 to bring down the government. Anant Singh, Janta Dal (United) MLA from Mokama, took oath as MLA in the Bihar Vidhan Sabha assembly.

This political turmoil in Bihar and the accusations against the state government are relevant to UPSC exams, particularly in the Polity & Governance section (GS Paper II), as they highlight issues of governance, social justice, and constitutional principles.

Key Facts

Tejashwi Yadav criticized the Nitish Kumar government.

Yadav accused the government of conspiring to destroy the Constitution.

Yadav alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party is promoting hatred.

Yadav highlighted the caste survey conducted during the Mahagathbandhan government.

Yadav accused the current government of depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Issues related to governance, social justice, and constitutional principles

GS Paper I: Social Issues - Role of caste in Indian society and politics

Potential question types: Analytical questions on the effectiveness of reservation policies, the impact of political defections on governance, and the challenges of implementing social justice measures

In Simple Words

A politician, Tejashwi Yadav, is saying the government is messing with the Constitution. He thinks they're hurting certain groups, like Dalits and tribals, by taking away their reserved spots in jobs and schools. It's like changing the rules of a game mid-play.

India Angle

In India, reservations are meant to help people from lower castes get a fair chance. If these reservations are reduced, it could affect their ability to get jobs or education, which impacts their families and communities.

For Instance

Imagine a school setting aside a certain number of seats for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. If the school suddenly stops doing that, those students might not get the same opportunities as others.

If the Constitution isn't followed properly, or if some groups are unfairly disadvantaged, it can affect everyone's access to opportunities and create social unrest.

Protecting the Constitution means protecting everyone's rights and opportunities.

Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, criticized the Nitish Kumar government, accusing it of conspiring to destroy the Constitution. He alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party is promoting hatred and weakening the country. Yadav highlighted the caste survey conducted during the Mahagathbandhan government and accused the current government of depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations.

Expert Analysis

The recent political clashes in Bihar, marked by accusations against the Nitish Kumar government and counter-allegations of attempting to destabilize the government, highlight the complexities of Indian politics and governance. To understand this news fully, several key concepts need to be examined.

The Constitution of India, adopted on January 26, 1950, is the supreme law of India. Tejashwi Yadav's allegation that the Nitish Kumar government is conspiring to destroy the Constitution is a serious charge. It implies that the government is acting in a manner that undermines the fundamental principles and values enshrined in the Constitution, such as secularism, social justice, and equality. This accusation is particularly relevant in the context of the alleged deprivation of Dalits and tribals of reservations, which are constitutionally mandated to ensure their social and economic upliftment.

Caste-based reservations are affirmative action measures provided for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) under Articles 15(4), 16(4), and 340 of the Constitution. These reservations aim to address historical injustices and social inequalities faced by these communities. Tejashwi Yadav's emphasis on the caste survey conducted during the Mahagathbandhan government underscores the importance of data-driven policies to ensure that reservation benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. The accusation that the current government is depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations raises concerns about the commitment to social justice and the effective implementation of constitutional provisions.

The Anti-Defection Law, enshrined in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, aims to prevent political defections by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs). Nitish Kumar's questioning of Tejashwi Yadav about allegedly paying six MLAs in 2024 to bring down the government suggests concerns about potential violations of the Anti-Defection Law. Such allegations can lead to disqualification of the MLAs involved and can destabilize the government. The law seeks to ensure the stability of governments and uphold the mandate of the electorate.

For UPSC aspirants, understanding these concepts is crucial for both the Prelims and Mains exams. In Prelims, questions may focus on the constitutional provisions related to reservations, the Anti-Defection Law, and the powers and functions of the state government. In Mains, questions may require a critical analysis of the role of caste in Indian politics, the challenges of implementing social justice policies, and the impact of political defections on governance and stability.

Visual Insights

Tejashwi Yadav's Criticism of Bihar Government

Key highlights from Tejashwi Yadav's criticism of the Nitish Kumar government regarding the Constitution and reservation policies.

Accusation: Conspiring to destroy the Constitution
Allegation: Depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations

More Information

Background

The political landscape of Bihar has been characterized by shifting alliances and intense competition between various political parties. The accusations made by Tejashwi Yadav against the Nitish Kumar government are rooted in this history of political rivalry and ideological differences. Understanding the dynamics of coalition politics in Bihar is crucial to contextualize the current political turmoil. The caste system plays a significant role in Bihar's politics. Parties often mobilize support along caste lines, and issues of social justice and representation are central to political discourse. The caste survey conducted during the Mahagathbandhan government and the subsequent accusations of depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations highlight the importance of caste-based politics in the state. The Mandal Commission Report of 1980, which recommended reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), has had a lasting impact on Indian politics, particularly in states like Bihar. The Constitution of India provides the framework for governance and the protection of fundamental rights. The allegations of undermining the Constitution and depriving marginalized communities of their rights raise concerns about the rule of law and the commitment to constitutional principles. Articles 14, 15, and 16, which guarantee equality before the law and prohibit discrimination on the basis of caste, religion, or gender, are particularly relevant in this context.

Latest Developments

In recent years, Bihar has witnessed significant political realignments, with parties switching alliances and governments changing frequently. The Nitish Kumar government's decision to rejoin the NDA in 2022 marked a major shift in the state's political landscape. These frequent changes in government have raised concerns about political stability and governance. The issue of caste-based reservations continues to be a contentious one in Bihar and across India. The debate over the implementation of the Mandal Commission Report and the subsequent challenges to reservation policies in the courts have shaped the political discourse on social justice. The recent Supreme Court judgment upholding the validity of the 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) has further intensified the debate on reservation policies. Looking ahead, the upcoming elections in Bihar will be a crucial test for the state's political parties. The issues of governance, social justice, and development are likely to dominate the electoral campaign. The performance of the Nitish Kumar government and the effectiveness of the opposition's challenge will determine the future political trajectory of the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Tejashwi Yadav is criticizing the Nitish Kumar government now. What recent political events in Bihar are likely the immediate cause for this?

Tejashwi Yadav's criticism likely stems from recent political realignments in Bihar. Specifically, Nitish Kumar's decision to rejoin the NDA in 2022 after having been in the Mahagathbandhan is a major factor. This shift in alliances has created political instability and a platform for Yadav to attack the current government's policies and intentions.

2. Yadav accuses the government of 'destroying the Constitution'. What specific actions or policies might he be referring to, and how do they relate to constitutional principles?

While the accusation is broad, Yadav likely refers to the following: * Depriving Dalits and tribals of reservations: This directly challenges the constitutional provisions for social justice and equality. * Promoting hatred (allegedly by the BJP): This undermines the secular fabric of the Constitution and the principles of fraternity and equality. * Poor governance and lack of development: This can be framed as a violation of the Directive Principles of State Policy, which mandate the state to promote the welfare of its citizens.

3. How does the caste survey conducted during the Mahagathbandhan government factor into Yadav's criticism of the current government?

The caste survey is a key achievement that Yadav highlights. By showcasing the survey, he aims to: * Emphasize the Mahagathbandhan's commitment to social justice: The survey provides data to support targeted policies for marginalized communities. * Contrast it with the current government's alleged neglect of these communities: Yadav uses the survey as a benchmark to criticize the NDA government's performance in addressing caste-based inequalities. * Mobilize his core voter base: The survey results can be used to rally support from communities that stand to benefit from affirmative action policies.

4. If a Mains question asks, 'Critically examine the political landscape of Bihar,' how can I incorporate Tejashwi Yadav's statements in my answer?

You can use Yadav's statements to illustrate the following points: * Political polarization: Yadav's strong criticism highlights the deep divisions between political parties in Bihar. * Caste-based politics: His emphasis on the caste survey and reservation issues demonstrates the continued importance of caste in Bihar's politics. * Governance challenges: His accusations of poor governance and lack of development can be used to discuss the challenges facing the state. * Shifting alliances: The context of changing political alliances provides a backdrop to understand the motivations and impact of Yadav's statements.

5. What specific data point from this news is most likely to be twisted into a tricky Prelims MCQ, and how can I avoid the trap?

The "21 years" of NDA rule in Bihar is ripe for a trap. The question might say: 'The NDA has continuously ruled Bihar for the last 21 years.' This is FALSE. There have been periods where other governments were in power. examTip: Pay close attention to the word 'continuously'.

Exam Tip

Pay close attention to the word 'continuously'.

6. How might Tejashwi Yadav's criticism be viewed from the perspective of someone who supports the current NDA government in Bihar?

A supporter of the NDA government might argue that: * Yadav's criticism is politically motivated and aimed at destabilizing the government. * The NDA government is committed to development and social justice, and Yadav's claims are exaggerated or false. * Yadav is trying to deflect attention from the alleged corruption and misgovernance during the Mahagathbandhan government's tenure. * The NDA government's policies are aligned with the Constitution and aimed at promoting the welfare of all citizens.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Anti-Defection Law in India: 1. The Anti-Defection Law is enshrined in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution. 2. The law aims to prevent political defections by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs). 3. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha has the power to disqualify a member under this law. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The Anti-Defection Law is enshrined in the Tenth Schedule, not the Ninth Schedule, of the Constitution. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The law aims to prevent political defections by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs). Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha has the power to disqualify a member under this law.

2. Which of the following Articles of the Constitution of India is/are related to caste-based reservations? 1. Article 14 2. Article 15(4) 3. Article 16(4) Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A.1 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Article 14 guarantees equality before the law but is not specifically related to caste-based reservations. Article 15(4) allows the state to make special provisions for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes. Article 16(4) allows the state to make provisions for the reservation of appointments or posts in favour of any backward class of citizens which, in the opinion of the state, is not adequately represented in the services under the state.

3. In the context of Indian politics, what is the primary objective of the Anti-Defection Law?

A.To promote coalition governments
B.To encourage dissent within political parties
C.To prevent political defections
D.To ensure representation of minority groups

Show Answer

Answer: C

The primary objective of the Anti-Defection Law is to prevent political defections by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs). The law aims to ensure the stability of governments and uphold the mandate of the electorate.