The Bihar government has issued a formal order directing former Chief Minister Rabri Devi to vacate her official bungalow located at 10, Circular Road in Patna within one week. The order, dated June 24, 2026, was issued by the state's Building Construction Department, citing that Rabri Devi has been occupying the premises without legal entitlement since her tenure as chief minister ended in 2005. Officials warn that failure to comply by the deadline could lead to legal action, including eviction proceedings and recovery of rent at market rates.
Background of the Bungalow Allotment
The bungalow at 10, Circular Road was allotted to Rabri Devi during her tenure as Chief Minister of Bihar from 1997 to 2005. After her term concluded, she continued to occupy the property under a temporary arrangement that was periodically extended. However, in 2024, the state government revised its policy on allotment of official residences to former chief ministers, limiting the period of occupation to one year after demitting office. Rabri Devi's continued stay beyond this period has been deemed unauthorized by the Building Construction Department.
Government's Notice and Legal Grounds
The notice issued to Rabri Devi states that she has been occupying the bungalow without any valid allotment order since 2005. The government has invoked the Bihar Government Buildings (Allotment, Rent, Eviction and Recovery) Rules, 2022, which empower the state to evict unauthorized occupants. The order gives her seven days to vacate the premises and hand over possession to the department. If she fails to do so, the government may initiate eviction proceedings under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, and also recover damages for the period of unauthorized occupation.
Political Reactions
The eviction order has sparked a political controversy, with leaders of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the party founded by her husband Lalu Prasad Yadav, accusing the state government of political vendetta. RJD spokesperson Mritunjay Tiwari said, "This is a clear case of targeting opposition leaders. Rabri Devi is being harassed because she is a prominent face of the RJD. The government should focus on governance instead of evicting a former chief minister." On the other hand, the ruling Janata Dal (United) defended the move, with party spokesman Neeraj Kumar stating, "The law is equal for everyone. No one is above the rules. If Rabri Devi has overstayed, she must vacate. This is not about politics but about following the law."
Impact and Next Steps
If Rabri Devi vacates the bungalow within the stipulated time, the property will be taken over by the government for reallocation. However, if she contests the order, legal proceedings could delay the eviction. The government has indicated that it will not hesitate to take action under the law. This case is being closely watched as it sets a precedent for other former chief ministers occupying official bungalows across the state. According to government records, at least three other former chief ministers are still occupying official residences beyond the permitted period, and similar notices may be issued to them.
