K.C. Tyagi Resigns as JD(U) National Spokesperson Amid Tensions with BJP

Senior JD(U) leader K.C. Tyagi has resigned from his position as the party’s national spokesperson amid growing tension within the party leadership over his stance on various sensitive issues that have caused friction with senior ally BJP. Rajiv Ranjan Prasad has been appointed as the new national spokesperson, according to a party statement released on Sunday. The statement mentioned that Tyagi stepped down for “personal reasons,” but he will continue to serve as the party’s political advisor.

In his resignation letter to Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar, Tyagi expressed gratitude for being reappointed despite his earlier request to be relieved from his organizational duties during the national convention. He acknowledged Nitish’s trust and affection, which led him to continue in the role longer than he intended.

“For the past several months, I have distanced myself from participating in TV debates,” Tyagi wrote in the letter, further requesting to be relieved of his responsibilities as national spokesperson due to his involvement in other tasks. The 73-year-old former Rajya Sabha MP assured Nitish Kumar that he would remain available to support and promote the Chief Minister’s leadership and the achievements of the Bihar government as needed.

This marks the second time in less than two years that Tyagi has vacated the role of national spokesperson. He was initially removed from the post in March 2023 but was reinstated two months later.

As the national spokesperson, Tyagi’s statements were often perceived as reflecting the party’s official views, which led to confusion and tensions within the NDA alliance.

In particular, Tyagi’s recent participation in a joint statement with Opposition MPs condemning “Zionist aggression” in support of the Palestinian cause had further exacerbated concerns. Party sources indicated that JD(U) Working President Sanjay Jha and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan ‘Lalan’ Singh are expected to take on a more prominent role in managing the party’s relationship with the BJP and NDA, minimizing the impact of Tyagi’s controversial statements.