Tejashwi Yadav, the leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), launched a sharp attack on Bihar minister Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday, labeling him a 'cheap minister' amid the controversy surrounding the bungalow and security downgrade of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi. The row erupted after the Bihar government decided to downgrade Rabri Devi's security and reallocate her official bungalow, which she had been occupying as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP).
Tejashwi's Retort
Responding to Choudhary's remarks, Tejashwi questioned the fuss over the bungalow allotment. 'What is the fuss about a separate house having been allotted to me? I am the leader of the opposition. Is the ruling dispensation doing me a favour?' Yadav said, defending his mother's entitlements. He further accused the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of targeting Rabri Devi due to political vendetta.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy began when the Bihar government issued orders to downgrade Rabri Devi's security cover from Z-plus to Z category and asked her to vacate the official bungalow she occupied as LoP. The RJD has termed this as a politically motivated move, alleging that the government is trying to settle scores with the former Chief Minister. Samrat Choudhary, a senior minister in the state cabinet, had earlier justified the decision, stating that Rabri Devi no longer holds the LoP post and thus is not entitled to the associated perks.
Political Reactions
The issue has sparked a heated political debate in Bihar. RJD leaders have rallied behind Rabri Devi, accusing the government of harassing her. On the other hand, BJP leaders have supported the government's decision, saying it is based on rules and guidelines. Tejashwi's sharp retort has further escalated the verbal war between the two camps, with both sides exchanging barbs over the matter.
The row has also drawn attention to the broader issue of political entitlements and the use of official amenities by former officeholders. As the debate continues, the state government has maintained that all decisions are taken as per norms and no individual is being targeted.
