Lalu Prasad Family Returns Security Personnel In Protest Over Security Downgrade

The family of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, including Rabri Devi and Tejashwi Yadav, has returned all security personnel to the state government in protest against the recent downgrade of their security cover from Z Plus to special security arrangements.

In a significant and dramatic move reflecting deep political discontent, the family of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav has decided to return all their security personnel to the Bihar state government, while this collective decision was taken as a direct protest against the recent reduction in the security cover provided to the family members. Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, along with Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi Yadav, took the step to send back the security details assigned to them, signaling their strong dissatisfaction with the Home Department's latest directives regarding their safety protocols.

Protest at 10 Circular Road

The official residence of Rabri Devi, located at 10 Circular Road, witnessed unusual scenes as the security personnel were asked to leave the premises. According to reports from the ground, there is currently not a single security guard stationed inside the residence or at the main entrance. Rabri Devi personally issued instructions for all security personnel to vacate their posts and return to their respective departments. RJD spokesperson Shakti Yadav confirmed the development, stating that the security personnel are currently standing at a short distance from the house after being asked to leave the premises. This move highlights the family's stance that the downgraded security is either insufficient or represents a political maneuver by the current administration.

Background of the Security Downgrade

The controversy began 2 days ago when the Home Department, acting on the recommendations of the State Security Committee, decided to overhaul the security arrangements for the RJD leadership. The most significant change was the removal of the Z Plus security category for both RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and his wife, former Chief Minister Rabri Devi. Under the new guidelines, the Z Plus cover was replaced with a special security arrangement. This new arrangement for Lalu Prasad Yadav includes 2 to 8 house guards from BSAP, 2 bodyguards from the Patna district force, a pilot and a bulletproof car from HQRT, and an escort and pilot provided by the Patna district force.

Detailed Security Breakdown for Rabri Devi

While the Z Plus status was removed, the government provided a specific set of security measures for Rabri Devi, which are slightly more extensive than those provided to Lalu Prasad. Her new security detail consists of 2-8 house guards from BSAP, 3 female bodyguards, and 3 uniformed bodyguards. Also, she's entitled to a pilot from HQRT, a bulletproof car, and an escort and pilot from the Patna district force. Despite these provisions, the family viewed the removal of the Z Plus status as a slight and a compromise on their safety, leading to the decision to return all guards.

Impact on Tej Pratap Yadav and Other Family Members

The security reshuffle also heavily impacted Lalu Yadav's son and the National President of Jan Shakti Janata Dal, Tej Pratap Yadav. His Y category security has been completely abolished. Under the new orders, Tej Pratap Yadav has been left with only 1 bodyguard for his protection. This drastic reduction is seen as one of the primary triggers for the family's angry response, while on the other hand, the security for Tejashwi Yadav remains largely unchanged. He continues to receive Y Plus category security, which includes an escort. His detail comprises 1-4 house guards from BSAP, 6 bodyguards from the Patna district force, and members of the escort party. Similarly, the security for Tejashwi's wife, Rajshree, and his sister, Misa Bharti, has not been altered. Misa Bharti, an RJD MP, continues to have 3 bodyguards, while Rajshree is provided with 1 female bodyguard.

Current Situation at the Residence

As of now, the gates of 10 Circular Road remain unguarded by official state personnel. The family has made it clear that they won't accept the reduced security tiers. The security personnel, following the orders of the former Chief Minister, have moved out of the bungalow and are waiting outside the perimeter. This standoff between the Lalu family and the state government adds a new layer of tension to the political atmosphere in Bihar, as the RJD leadership accuses the Samrat government of targeting them through security downgrades.