Former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi has issued a direct challenge to the state government over its decision to reassign the government bungalow she has occupied for more than a decade. She declared that she will not vacate the residence voluntarily.
Reacting to an order allotting the bungalow at 10, Circular Road in Patna to Dairy and Fisheries Minister Nand Kishor Ram, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader stated that Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary could remove her only by force. Rabri Devi made these remarks upon returning from Delhi, where she had attended her grandson’s birthday celebrations.
The bungalow, situated near Raj Bhavan and the chief minister’s residence, has long served as both the family home of Lalu Prasad Yadav and a key political centre for the RJD. The dispute stems from a revised allotment policy that reserves the residence for a deputy chief minister.
Background of the Bungalow Dispute
The bungalow at 10, Circular Road has been occupied by Rabri Devi for over ten years. It is not merely a residence but also a symbol of political influence for the RJD. The state government’s move to reallocate it has sparked a fresh political confrontation.
Political Implications
Rabri Devi’s defiance is seen as a direct test of Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary’s authority. By daring him to use force, she has escalated the issue, potentially drawing widespread attention from supporters and opponents alike.
The revised allotment policy, which prioritizes deputy chief ministers for this bungalow, has been criticized by the RJD as a politically motivated move to weaken their stronghold in the state capital.
Reactions and Next Steps
Political analysts suggest that the standoff could lead to legal battles or administrative action. The state government has yet to respond formally to Rabri Devi’s statement. Meanwhile, RJD workers have expressed solidarity with their leader, vowing to resist any forced eviction.
The development comes amid ongoing political tensions in Bihar, with the ruling coalition and opposition parties clashing over various issues. This bungalow row is likely to further intensify the rivalry.
