Patna: Political Battle Erupts Over Security Downgrade and Eviction
A political battle has erupted in Bihar following the NDA government's twin decisions to downgrade the security cover of RJD chief Lalu Prasad and his wife Rabri Devi, alongside an order to vacate their long-occupied government residence.
Speaking to reporters, Lalu on Wednesday pointed fingers at his rival and former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, characterising the moves as politically motivated hostility. "Yes, the security has been downgraded. This has been done on the instructions of Nitish Kumar," Prasad told the media, accusing the state government of acting out of "hatred" and "vendetta" politics.
Security Cover Reduced
The controversy ignited earlier this month when the Bihar government stripped both former chief ministers of their elite Z-plus security cover. Under the revised protocol, their protection was reduced to a significantly lower tier, utilising standard Bihar Special Armed Police (BSAP) house guards.
RJD Family Protests
Irked by what they perceived as a deliberate insult, the RJD first family retaliated by voluntarily returning all remaining government security personnel stationed at their 10, Circular Road bungalow. Mirroring his parents' protest, Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav also surrendered his entire security.
In the absence of official personnel, the vacuum has been filled by grassroots party faithful. Armed with traditional sticks (lathis), scores of RJD workers have pitched tents outside the residence, vowing to provide a round-the-clock human shield for their leaders.
Eviction Notice Served
Compounding the security dispute is a high-stakes eviction notice served by the state building construction department. The sprawling 10, Circular Road bungalow, which has served as the RJD's de facto political headquarters for over two decades, has been officially reallotted to BJP leader and state Nand Kishore Ram. The local administration had previously issued a 15-day ultimatum for the family to vacate the property.
Rabri Devi Seeks Grace Period
Though Rabri Devi initially dared the administration to evict her by force, she has since formally reached out to the state government to de-escalate the standoff, requesting a one-month grace period to complete the relocation. In an official letter, the former chief minister cited the delicate health condition of Lalu and wrote that he is at risk of infection. For this reason, doctors have advised him to stay separate from the family. She assured the government that the family would shift to 39, Hardinge Road as soon as a comparable, infection-free medical room and essential kitchen amenities are finalised at the new site.
