Patna: Proceedings in the Bihar Legislative Assembly were disrupted on Monday after legislators from the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) staged protests over a controversial remark referring to the late Ram Vilas Paswan as “bechara” (helpless). The protest took place during the ongoing budget session, with party lawmakers demanding a formal apology from Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav.
The disruption began shortly after the House convened, when LJP (Ram Vilas) MLAs entered the Assembly holding placards and raising slogans. The protest was triggered by a recent statement from a legislator of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, which party members said was disrespectful to Paswan, a veteran political leader widely regarded for his contribution to social justice and marginalised communities.
LJP (Ram Vilas) MLA Raju Tiwari strongly condemned the remark, describing Paswan as a leader who dedicated more than five decades to public service. He said Paswan remained closely connected to the people and that any derogatory reference to him was unacceptable. Protesters also gathered outside the Assembly, raising slogans in defence of Paswan’s legacy and accusing opposition leaders of disrespecting a national figure.
Party legislators insisted that the alleged comment had undermined the dignity of both Paswan and the Assembly. They called on Tejashwi Yadav to take responsibility and issue a public apology, arguing that such language reflected poorly on legislative conduct and democratic values. Several lawmakers warned that failure to address the issue could further escalate political tensions.
LJP MLA Baby Kumari also criticised the remark, saying her party would not tolerate any insult to its late leader. She said the party remained united and warned of political consequences if the matter was not resolved. The incident has intensified tensions between LJP (Ram Vilas) and RJD during the budget session, underscoring the continued political sensitivity surrounding Paswan’s legacy in Bihar politics.
