The dominant public perception about Rabri Devi, former Bihar chief minister and wife of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, may still be that of a semi-literate traditional housewife with a mind lurking in the shadow of her husband’s worldview.
But she shattered much of that myth on Wednesday. Rabri Devi presented herself not only as a politician with strong views that she can articulate at length, but also as one who can independently express views clashing with her husband’s. Unmindful of the niceties of political correctness, Ms Devi strongly rejected charges that her family was becoming one of those promoting dynastic politics. She also praised yoga guru Baba Ramdev’s controversial political activities while her husband has already bitterly denounced Ramdev’s statements. “He is busy in his work and speaks (on politics) when he gets time. He does not take any politician’s name. Ramdev Baba is saying the right things.”
“I will launch both my sons and my daughters in politics. Why is the allegation of family promotion in politics made only for my family and my party? Why are such allegations never made for the sons of (Bihar minister) Narendra Singh and (MP) Jagdish Sharma?” said a relaxed-looking Ms Devi, clad in a sari with red and blue floral motifs.
“Look at Delhi, at the Centre, sons and daughters are in politics everywhere. Sharad Pawar’s daughter and Karunanidhi’s daughter are in politics. Is not that dynastic politics? Or is it only a caste issue, where it is considered right for the upper castes and condemned when it is done by the poor and the backward castes? It should be equal for all,” she argued, her voice balanced and her face bearing a smile.