Patna : A heated confrontation erupted in the Bihar Legislative Council on Thursday as opposition leader Rabri Devi and minister Ashok Chaudhary traded sharp accusations over rising crime in the state. The session descended into chaos after Rabri Devi accused Chaudhary of being involved in money lending and “looting” both the Congress and the Janata Dal (United). The remarks led to a commotion, prompting the Chairman to order the removal of opposition members from the House until the first session concluded.
Opposition Takes Aim at Law and Order
The uproar began when opposition leaders, led by Rabri Devi, criticised the government over the deteriorating law and order situation in Bihar. Alleging that incidents of theft, robbery, and murder had become a daily occurrence, Rabri Devi pointed to the recent killing of 22 people during Holi as evidence of the government’s failure to maintain order.
Opposition members stormed into the well of the House, chanting slogans and demanding accountability from the government. “Criminals are running amok in every district while the government remains powerless,” Rabri Devi said, adding that the administration was merely indulging in “paperwork” without any real action on the ground.
Personal Allegations Escalate Tensions
The situation took a turn when Rabri Devi accused Ashok Chaudhary of financial misconduct, claiming he had “looted Congress first and is now looting JDU.” Chaudhary swiftly countered, warning that his remarks were on record and accusing RJD leaders of being complicit in criminal activities, including involvement in a ransom case linked to the kidnapping of his son.
As tempers flared, the Speaker intervened and ordered the opposition members to leave the House until the end of the first session.
Protest Outside the House
Outside the Council, opposition members, led by Rabri Devi, staged a demonstration with posters in hand, demanding answers from the government on its failure to control crime. The protesters raised slogans condemning the state’s inability to protect vulnerable women and girls.
“Incidents of rape of poor girls are rising continuously, but this government seems unconcerned,” Rabri Devi said, accusing Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s administration of allowing “jungle raj” to prevail. Responding to the BJP’s portrayal of Nitish Kumar as a “lion,” she added, “If Nitish Kumar is a lion, he should protect the dignity of Bihar’s daughters.”
