RJD accuses ruling JD(U) of ‘nepotism’ in Supreme Court panel counsel appointment

RJD leader Manoj Jha. File | Photo Credit: PTI

Bihar’s Principal Opposition party Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Monday (June 16, 2025) claimed that Janata Dal (United) national working president and Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Kumar Jha’s daughters were made “Group A Panel Counsel” of the Union government in the Supreme Court. Mr. Jha did not respond to the charges.

Talking to reporters, senior RJD MP Manoj Jha said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is succumbing to the pressure from ally JD(U). “It is an example of nepotism,” the RJD leader said adding that the JD(U) leader’s two daughters did not have the necessary experience for being included in such a panel of lawyers. He also cited a government order on including them in the panel.

‘Coalition pressure on Modi’

The RJD MP said the pressure of the coalition at the Centre is bearing on Mr. Modi. “The government should remain afloat. Is this not snatching away the rights of a large section? Were there no better, eligible candidates? Were there no candidates from backward, Dalit, extreme backward groups? Or were these seats reserved for the coalition?” Mr. Jha asked.

On the preparations for the upcoming Bihar Assembly election, Mr. Jha said the Opposition alliance will fight it together. He said the ability to secure a win is the only factor in this election. “Whoever is in the winning position should get the ticket [to contest the polls],” he added.

Published - June 16, 2025 10:19 pm IST