Patna, May 30: The controversy surrounding former Chief Minister Rabri Devi’s government bungalow on Circular Road in Patna has intensified. Leaders from the ruling NDA and the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) are exchanging sharp accusations over the issue. Meanwhile, the Patna district administration has requested RJD leader Rabri Devi to shift to the newly allotted residence at 39 Harding Road. The administration has given her a 15-day deadline, after which legal action may be pursued.
The dispute escalated when Rabri Devi, the leader of the opposition in the Bihar Assembly, reportedly refused to vacate the bungalow despite receiving a notice from the state government.
Reacting strongly to Rabri Devi’s stance, Sanjay Sarawagi, the state president of the Bihar Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasized that the rule of law prevails in Bihar. He stated that no individual, regardless of their status, is above established laws and regulations.
Sarawagi remarked, “Government residences are public property maintained with taxpayer money, and their allocation must adhere to government rules and procedures.” He argued that disregarding government orders undermines democratic values and constitutional standards.
He accused the Lalu Prasad Yadav family of perpetuating a political culture that views political power and government resources as personal entitlements rather than public assets. He claimed that the people of Bihar have been witnessing the negative consequences of this mindset for decades and are no longer willing to accept it.
Criticizing Rabri Devi’s alleged challenge to the government, he stated that her comments reflect a disrespect for the rule of law and democratic institutions. Sarawagi further asserted, “In a democracy, the public is paramount. Government rules apply equally to all, and therefore, the official residence should be vacated in accordance with the law.”
He also posed a political question, asking whether Rabri Devi would object to a member of the Dalit community being allocated a large government residence, and whether such accommodations should remain the privilege of a select few.
However, the opposition dismissed the government’s stance outright. In response to the eviction notice, RJD spokesperson Chittaranjan Gagan accused the NDA government of violating democratic decorum and political etiquette.
Leave a Comment