Patna: Calling the NDA government 'mad' and accusing it of being driven by hatred, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has brushed aside notices issued by the Bihar government directing his wife and former Chief Minister Rabri Devi to vacate the official bungalow at 10, Circular Road.
Returning from Singapore after a routine health check-up, Lalu reacted strongly to the controversy surrounding the eviction notice. 'Everyone has gone mad. They (NDA government) are filled with hatred. It makes no difference to me. The government can do whatever it wants,' Lalu said.
On May 29, the building construction department issued a third notice to Rabri Devi to vacate the bungalow. Responding to questions at Delhi airport on Sunday night, RJD MP and Lalu's daughter Misa Bharti, who accompanied him, said the family would comply with the notice. 'We will vacate the house within the notice period of 15 days,' Misa said.
When asked about the downgrading of the security cover provided to Lalu and Rabri, Misa remarked that the Bihar government perhaps had a greater need for the personnel earlier assigned to them. 'Lalu ji and Rabri ji do not need security. They have so many well-wishers. I, too, am returning my security cover,' she said.
Meanwhile, Rabri visited her house in Kautilya Nagar in Patna on Sunday to review ongoing work. The family is expected to shift there after vacating the Circular Road residence. Earlier, Rabri had stated that they would not vacate the bungalow at any cost and challenged Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary to use force to remove them.
This development marks a significant turn in the ongoing political tussle between the RJD and the NDA government in Bihar. The eviction notice had earlier sparked a war of words, with Rabri Devi initially refusing to leave. However, the family now appears to be preparing for a move.
Background of the Controversy
The official bungalow at 10, Circular Road has been a subject of contention since the change of government in Bihar. Rabri Devi, who served as chief minister for three terms, was allotted the residence during her tenure. After the NDA came to power, the state government issued multiple notices asking her to vacate, citing that she no longer held any official position.
Legal and Political Implications
The eviction notice has legal and political ramifications. While the government maintains that it is following due process, the RJD has accused it of vindictive politics. Lalu's strong reaction underscores the deep-seated animosity between the two political camps.
Family's Response
Misa Bharti's statement indicates a pragmatic approach, ensuring compliance with the law while maintaining their political stance. The family's move to Kautilya Nagar is seen as a strategic retreat, avoiding a direct confrontation that could have escalated into a legal battle.
As the 15-day notice period runs, all eyes are on the RJD family's next steps. The eviction is likely to remain a flashpoint in Bihar politics, with both sides using it to rally their supporters.
