The Bihar government has officially asked former chief minister Rabri Devi to vacate her long-time residence at 10 Circular Road in Patna. The notice comes as part of the state's ongoing efforts to reclaim government accommodations from former officials who no longer qualify for such facilities.
Official Notice and Deadline
The Building Construction Department issued a formal notice to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader on Monday, giving her a clear deadline of December 31, 2024 to vacate the premises. The bungalow, located in the high-security area of the state capital, has been Rabri Devi's home for many years during and after her tenure as chief minister.
According to official sources, the notice follows established rules and procedures regarding the allocation of government accommodations to former chief ministers. The current administration has been systematically reviewing all such allocations to ensure compliance with existing regulations.
New Residence Arrangements
While the eviction notice might seem abrupt to some, the government has already made alternative arrangements for the former chief minister. Sources confirm that Rabri Devi will be moving to a new government bungalow at 9 Polo Road in Patna, which has been designated as her new official residence.
The Polo Road area is also considered a prime location in Patna and houses several other prominent political figures and government officials. The new bungalow is expected to provide adequate security and amenities suitable for a former chief minister.
Political Context and Reactions
This development occurs amid ongoing political tensions in Bihar between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government and the opposition parties, including Rabri Devi's RJD. The timing of the notice has sparked discussions in political circles, with some viewing it through a political lens.
However, government officials maintain that this is a routine administrative matter following established protocols. They emphasize that similar actions have been taken in other states regarding government accommodations for former chief ministers and other dignitaries.
The RJD leadership has not yet made any official statement regarding the eviction notice. Political observers are watching closely to see how the party responds to this development, especially given that Rabri Devi is not only a former chief minister but also the wife of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav.
The vacated bungalow at 10 Circular Road is expected to be allocated to another eligible dignitary or repurposed for government use once Rabri Devi completes her move to the new residence by the year-end deadline.
