Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on former Chief Minister Rabri Devi over her refusal to vacate a government bungalow, stating that the state is not a monarchy where one family can claim multiple official residences. He said, 'This is not a monarchy, mother needs one bungalow, son needs another.'
Samrat's Personal Example
Choudhary cited his own experience to drive home the point about following rules. He revealed that in the last 30 years, he has been allotted 11 different government bungalows and vacated each one promptly when asked. 'I have shifted 11 times in three decades. No one is above the law. If we want to set an example, we must follow it ourselves,' he said.
Political Context
The controversy erupted after Rabri Devi, a former Chief Minister and wife of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, refused to vacate the bungalow allotted to her despite repeated requests from the state administration. The bungalow is needed for official purposes, and the government has cited shortage of accommodation for ministers and officials. Rabri Devi's son, Tejashwi Yadav, who is the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, also occupies a separate government bungalow.
Government's Stand
The state government has maintained that all former chief ministers are entitled to only one bungalow for a limited period after demitting office. The rules clearly state that the facility is not inheritable and cannot be claimed by family members. 'We have given them ample time. Now we will have to take legal action if they do not comply,' a senior government official said.
Opposition's Reaction
The RJD has termed the government's move as political vendetta. Party spokesperson said, 'Rabri Devi is a former Chief Minister and has every right to the bungalow. The government is targeting her because she is a strong opposition voice.' However, the ruling BJP-JD(U) alliance has dismissed these allegations, saying the law applies equally to everyone.
Previous Incidents
This is not the first time that the Yadav family has been involved in a bungalow controversy. In 2022, Lalu Prasad Yadav had to vacate a government bungalow in Patna after the Supreme Court directed him to do so. The family has often been accused of occupying government properties beyond the permissible period.
As the standoff continues, the state administration is preparing to issue a final notice to Rabri Devi, warning of eviction if she fails to vacate the premises by the end of this month. The matter is likely to escalate politically, with both sides digging in for a long battle.
