Patna: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Wednesday staged protests across district headquarters in Bihar, targeting the so-called “double-engine government” and alleging a rise in inflation, unemployment, deteriorating law and order, and corruption.
Main Demonstration in Patna
The main demonstration was held at Gardanibagh in Patna, where hundreds of party functionaries and workers gathered and raised slogans against the government. The protest concluded with a five-member delegation, led by Patna district president Dinanath Singh Yadav, submitting a memorandum of demands to the Patna district magistrate.
Party Leadership Applauds Agitation
RJD national president Lalu Prasad and Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav congratulated party workers and described the statewide agitation as a success. Addressing the gathering, RJD state president Mangani Lal Mandal warned that the party would intensify its agitation in the coming days.
“Today’s protest has rattled the ruling dispensation. Under the leadership of Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, RJD will soon announce the third phase of this mass movement. We will sharpen our struggle from the streets to the assembly,” Mandal said.
Allegations of Mafia Shield and Financial Fraud
Mandal accused the government of shielding mafias and failing to check organized financial fraud. RJD national chief spokesperson Manoj Kumar Jha criticized the rise in fuel prices and alleged that high VAT and surcharges on petroleum products in Bihar had adversely affected farmers and increased transportation costs.
Crime Against Women and Public Safety
Party leaders also criticized the government over incidents of crime against women and alleged deterioration in public safety. State spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad said the party would continue to raise public-interest issues through protests and mass campaigns.
Prominent Leaders Present
Among those present were former ministers Suresh Paswan and Dr. Ramanand Yadav, along with several senior party leaders and workers.
