Security Row Hits Bihar as RJD Leaders Return State Protection

A major political standoff is unfolding in Patna as the entire Lalu Prasad Yadav family has opted to surrender their state-provided security. This dramatic move comes after the Nitish Kumar-led administration downgraded the security level for Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi from the top-tier Z+ category. While the government maintains that the change was based on a technical review by security committees, the RJD has characterized the move as an insult to the former Chief Ministers. Tejashwi Yadav, the current Leader of the Opposition, joined the protest by returning his own Y+ security guards, effectively leaving the family’s residences without state-sponsored protection. The Bihar government’s new order specified that Rabri Devi would now be provided with a smaller contingent of Bihar Special Armed Police (BSAP) guards and a limited number of bodyguards. Similarly, Lalu Prasad was allotted a reduced guard team and two bodyguards. However, the RJD veterans were quick to dismiss these arrangements, ordering all personnel to vacate their premises immediately. Witnesses reported seeing security vehicles and personnel stationed just outside the official gates after being asked to leave, highlighting the tense atmosphere surrounding the decision. This development marks a new low in the relationship between the ruling NDA and the main opposition party.