Jayant backs Modi, hits out at Congress over 26/11 accused’s extradition – The Times of India

New Delhi: In a bid to expand the Rashtriya Lok Dal’s (RLD) national footprint ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, party chief and union minister Jayant Chaudhary inducted a host of political leaders and social activists from across states into the party on Saturday. The move, seen as part of the RLD’s strategic positioning within the BJP-led NDA, was coupled with the launch of a nationwide membership drive. He also criticised the TMC government for the recent violence and Congress’s response on the extradition of Tahawwur Rana.
Chaudhary reiterated his party’s alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the NDA, stating that “India is emerging as a stable and respected global power.” He also endorsed Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks about the NDA’s prospects in southern states like Telangana.
On current issues, Chaudhary defended the recently passed Waqf Board Amendment Bill, asserting that party consultations with minority leaders found no serious opposition. He also criticised the West Bengal government’s handling of recent violence, contrasting it with RLD’s internal consensus-building approach.
On the extradition of Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, Chaudhary criticised the Congress for its response, accusing the party of lacking basic understanding of national security matters. He emphasised that rather than acknowledging a major diplomatic and legal achievement, the Congress had chosen to make baseless allegations. “Instead of praising such a significant development, they are making irresponsible statements,” Chaudhary said, framing the extradition as a testament to India’s global standing and the Modi government’s firm approach to terrorism.
With growing momentum and strategic alliances, the RLD is gearing up for a more prominent role on the national stage, grounded in the legacies of past leaders and a promise of inclusive progress.
Welcoming the new entrants with the party’s symbolic scarf, Chaudhary announced, “We will take forward the legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh ji together.” His reference to the late prime minister and farmers’ leader signals the RLD’s continued emphasis on agrarian and inclusive politics rooted in constitutional values.
The induction ceremony, held in Delhi, also marked the beginning of a six-month membership campaign, launched on the eve of Dr BR Ambedkar’s birth anniversary. “Babasaheb was not just a leader of SC/ STs but a nation-builder whose ideals guide our politics,” Chaudhary said, calling the initiative a tribute to Ambedkar’s vision of social justice and democratic participation.
The membership drive will run until October 15, followed by internal elections to select the party’s next national president. RLD workers will reach out to citizens across villages and cities to strengthen grassroots presence.