Patna: Political tensions have escalated in Bihar following opposition allegations over the handling of a case involving a student preparing for the NEET medical entrance examination, with the deputy chief minister, Samrat Choudhary, publicly challenging critics to present evidence and promising action within 24 hours.
Choudhary was responding to remarks by the former chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Rabri Devi, who questioned the state government’s handling of the case and raised broader concerns about law and order. She alleged that women and girls were unsafe in Bihar and claimed that criminals were operating with impunity, remarks that quickly drew sharp reactions from the ruling alliance.
Addressing reporters in Patna, Choudhary dismissed the allegations as political posturing and said the government would act decisively if wrongdoing was proven. “If the opposition has any concrete evidence related to this case, they should place it before the government,” he said. “Action will be taken within 24 hours. This government believes in action, not certificates from anyone.”
He added that the administration stood with the victim and that investigating agencies were working “with complete seriousness”. Any negligence or criminal conduct, he said, would invite strict action, regardless of the level at which it occurred. “There will be no compromise on law and order,” Choudhary said.
The NEET-related case has increasingly become a flashpoint in Bihar’s political discourse, with the opposition accusing the government of failure and the ruling side insisting that due process is being followed. With both sides hardening their positions, the issue is expected to dominate political debate in the coming days.
The confrontation extended to the legislative council, where opposition members, led by Rabri Devi in her role as leader of the opposition, staged protests over alleged irregularities linked to the state’s agricultural roadmap. They also renewed demands for a bonus on paddy procurement, accusing the government of neglecting farmers’ interests.
Reiterating her stance, Rabri Devi said farmers were being denied their due and alleged that corruption had crept into agricultural schemes. The government has yet to respond in detail to these claims, but officials have indicated that the accusations would be examined through established procedures.
