JD(U) Expels MLA Shyam Rajak Amidst Rumours Of His Joining RJD, Sacks Him From Cabinet

Ahead of the Bihar assembly polls, Janata Dal (United) has expelled state minister Shyam Rajak in the wake of rumours that he is joining the RJD.

He was all set to exit as an MLA and state minister. His expulsion from the party came a day before he was expected to take the step.

The development is expected to leave an impact on JD(U)'s prospects when the party is all set to fight to retain power in the state.

Reportedly, Rajak has also been sacked from the Bihar cabinet. The recommendation for sacking him, which comes from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has been sent to the Governor. He represents the Phulwari assembly constituency in Patna.

JD(U) state president Vashishth Narayan Singh has been quoted saying: “Shyam Rajak has been sacked from the party for six years. He was constantly indulging in anti-party activities and therefore Janata Dal-United was compelled to take this decision.”

Rajak became a minister in the Bihar government in 2017 following the severing of ties between JD(U) and RJD. He had made an exit from RJD in 2009. The RJD, meanwhile, is keeping channels open for Rajak.

Rajak told the Hindustan Times that "he was not aware about being sacked from the state cabinet or from the party."

He has been quoted saying: “I am not aware of it. I have not received any formal notification or communication from the party." He also said that he has never compromised on his dignity and respect. Rajak was serving as the industry minister in the Nitish Kumar-led cabinet.