“‘If there is a war between India and America, people will forget to say Jai Shri Ram’: Political storm erupts over RJD MP Surendra Prasad Yadav’s remarks in Gaya, new debate on economic crisis and religious politics intensifies”
In Bihar politics, where Surendra Prasad Yadav is often in the news for his controversial statements, the Rashtriya Janata Dal MP from Jehanabad has once again landed at the center of a major political controversy. His remarks made during a programme in Gaya have triggered a fresh political debate across the state.
The RJD MP, while referring to India’s economic situation and a possible global crisis, reportedly said that if “there is a war between India and America, people will forget to say ‘Jai Shri Ram’ within a month.” The statement quickly went viral on social media and has been strongly picked up by opposition parties.
Statement made during condolence programme
According to information, Surendra Prasad Yadav had reached a condolence meeting organized at the premises of The Magadh Co-operative Bank located in Kedar Nath Market, Gaya city. The programme was held on the occasion of the third death anniversary of former MLA Vinay Yadav’s father and former chairman of the bank, late Umesh Kumar Verma.
While addressing the gathering, Surendra Prasad Yadav expressed concern over the country’s economy, rising inflation, and challenges faced by the cooperative sector. During his speech, he said that if a war breaks out between India and America, it would not take long—within a month people would forget to say “Jai Shri Ram.” He further remarked that in such a situation, people would even be reminded of their deceased relatives.
He added that the country is heading towards an economic crisis and that, sitting in Parliament, he can clearly feel the seriousness of the situation.
Attack on central government policies
In his address, the RJD MP also targeted the economic policies of the central government. He said that inflation and unemployment are continuously rising, while cooperative institutions are not receiving adequate support.
Surendra Prasad Yadav described the economic crisis as becoming a “serious disease like cancer.” He further claimed that conditions have reached a point where even senior leaders are seen travelling on foot, by tempo, and on bicycles.
Video goes viral on social media
After the video of the event surfaced, sharp reactions have emerged on social media. Supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party have linked the statement to religious sentiments and attacked the RJD, while some RJD leaders argue that the remarks are being shown out of context.
However, no official statement has yet been issued by the Rashtriya Janata Dal regarding the controversy.
Close associate of Lalu Yadav
Surendra Prasad Yadav is considered a senior leader in Bihar politics and is regarded as a close associate of Lalu Prasad Yadav. He has been elected as MLA eight times and has also served as minister in the Bihar government, holding important portfolios such as cooperative and excise.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he won the Jehanabad seat and is currently counted among the influential leaders of the RJD.
Political debate intensifies
Political analysts believe that in the run-up to upcoming elections in Bihar, such statements may further intensify political polarization, especially at a time when debates over economic issues and religious politics are already ongoing.
At present, this statement remains a major topic of discussion in Bihar politics, and political sparring over it is expected to continue in the coming days.
