Lalu Yadav Alleges Nitish Kumar Behind Security Withdrawal

Lalu Prasad Yadav (File photo)

NEW DELHI: RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav on Wednesday reacted to Bihar government's decision to withdraw the Z plus security cover of him and his wife, former chief minister Rabri Devi, alleging that long-time political rival Nitish Kumar was behind the move. Days after the state government downgraded their security cover, Lalu told reporters, "Yes, it (the security) has been withdrawn. Nitish Kumar has got everything done."

The issue sparked a political controversy in Bihar after Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi and leader of opposition Tejashwi Yadav returned all security personnel deployed outside their official residences in Patna, a day after the security downgrade. Soon after the security personnel left, RJD workers armed with 'lathis' bamboo sticks took positions outside Rabri Devi's residence at 10 Circular Road and took charge of guarding the premises. Several party workers, including women, gathered outside the residence and began keeping watch. "It's our duty to provide security to Rabri Devi ji. Lalu ji has gone to Singapore and Tejashwi ji is also not available right now. We ourselves will take full care of her," an RJD worker told reporters.

Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar after serving as chief minister for the longest time in Bihar has moved to Rajya Sabha. Nitish Kumar's exit from Bihar politics, paved the way for first-ever BJP-led government in state.