Amidst swirling rumors regarding the security cover of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, the Bihar Police has issued a clarification. The police have denied any withdrawal of their security detail, asserting that no such order has been passed.
Police Denial
Bihar Police officials have categorically stated that the security cover for Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi remains intact. The clarification comes after media reports suggested that the state government had decided to revoke their security due to a reduction in threat perception.
“There is no truth in the reports claiming the withdrawal of security cover for Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi. The police have not received any directive in this regard,” said a senior police officer on condition of anonymity.
Background
Lalu Yadav, a former Chief Minister of Bihar and Union Minister, has been provided with Z-plus security cover, which includes a contingent of commandos and escort vehicles. Rabri Devi, also a former Chief Minister, enjoys a similar level of protection. The security arrangements are periodically reviewed based on threat assessments.
In recent weeks, there have been speculations that the Nitish Kumar-led government might reduce or withdraw the security cover for the RJD chief, citing improved law and order situation. However, the police have dismissed such claims as baseless.
Political Reactions
The rumors had sparked political reactions, with RJD leaders accusing the state government of targeting their party chief. Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu’s son and former Deputy Chief Minister, had earlier expressed concern over the alleged move. “If the government tries to compromise my father’s security, it will be a serious matter,” he had said.
Meanwhile, the ruling Janata Dal (United) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have remained silent on the issue. Political analysts believe that the clarification from the police is aimed at diffusing tensions ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Security Review Process
The security cover for high-profile individuals is reviewed by a committee comprising officials from the Intelligence Bureau (IB), state police, and other agencies. Based on the threat perception, the committee recommends the level of security. Any change in security cover requires a formal order from the state government.
In the case of Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi, the last review was conducted six months ago, and the threat level was assessed as “high,” leading to the continuation of Z-plus cover. The next review is scheduled later this year.
As of now, there is no official communication regarding any change in their security status. The police have urged the media to refrain from spreading unconfirmed reports.
