The Bihar government on Saturday officially reinstated 'Z' category security for Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and former Chief Minister Rabri Devi. According to an official order issued by the Special Branch of the Home Department, the decision follows a formal recommendation from the State Security Committee. Under the enhanced security protocol, both leaders will be provided with a dedicated bulletproof vehicle alongside specialised Headquarters Reaction Team (HQRT) protection.
This decision marks a significant shift in the security arrangements for the veteran leaders. The 'Z' category status ensures a robust protective detail, prioritising their safety within the state's current political landscape.
The move comes after a period of tension; on 6 June, Rabri Devi and Lalu Prasad Yadav had sent away all remaining security personnel stationed outside their 10 Circular Road residence in Patna. This drastic step was taken in protest after a Bihar government order withdrew their previous Z-plus security cover, replacing it with a scaled-down protocol.
The escalation also coincided with the Bihar government directing Rabri Devi to vacate the 10 Circular Road bungalow, which has since been allotted to Bihar Minister Nand Kishore Ram. The state government's notice pointed out that Rabri Devi had already been allotted an alternative government accommodation at Hardinge Road in her capacity as Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, but had not yet moved.
Amidst these developments, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, speaking at a public event in Sheikhpura, criticised the practice of former officials treating government properties as personal estates. He remarked that the Chief Minister’s residence belongs to the public and cannot be treated as anyone's personal fiefdom or ancestral property, adding that he had personally vacated his government accommodation within 24 hours of his previous tenure ending.
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