The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Wednesday declared a two-phase statewide protest across Bihar, targeting the state government over issues including inflation, unemployment, alleged corruption, and deteriorating law and order. State president Mangani Lal Mandal made the announcement during a press conference in Patna, flanked by senior party leaders.
Protest Schedule and Leadership
The first phase of demonstrations will take place on June 9 at all block headquarters, followed by a second phase on June 17 at district headquarters. The press conference was attended by party national vice-president Uday Narayan Chaudhary, state vice-president Tanveer Hasan, principal general secretary Ranvijay Sahu, chief spokesperson Shakti Singh Yadav, and spokespersons Ejaz Ahmad and Arun Kumar Yadav.
Allegations Against the State Government
Mandal accused the administration of relying on rhetoric and force, claiming that governance gaps were exacerbating public hardships. Referring to a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Bihar, he alleged that the government had failed to account for Rs 72,000 crore. He demanded a clear explanation of how the financial irregularity occurred, where the money went, and who was responsible.
On inflation, Mandal said rising petrol and diesel prices were increasing freight costs, and alleged that Bihar imposed the highest value-added tax (VAT) and surcharge, calling it unjust. He also accused the government of neglecting farmers' issues and urged it to curb inflation, eliminate corruption, improve law and order, and address public grievances.
Crime and Development Concerns
Mandal claimed a rise in crimes against women and minor girls after the recent elections, asserting that the government had failed to prevent such incidents. He also flagged regional imbalance in development and demanded data on landless and homeless families. Specifically, he sought details of the distribution of three-decimal land to landless households over the past 12 years under the central government and 20 years under the state government, as well as information on parcha holders who were given possession, including cases where allotted land was allegedly occupied by feudal elements.
Poverty and Welfare Schemes
On poverty estimates, Mandal accused the government of presenting misleading figures and claimed that Bihar had the highest number of people below the poverty line. He alleged the absence of effective welfare schemes to address the issue.
Future Agitation
Mandal said the June 9 protests would mark the first phase, followed by district-level protests on June 17. Further agitation, including dharna, demonstrations, and arrests, will be announced later.
