NEW DELHI — Former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav criticised a recent government decision to downgrade his and his wife Rabri Devi’s security detail and to vacate their official bungalow, calling the move a “mistake.” The state Home Department had earlier withdrawn the Z‑level protection previously assigned to the couple and replaced it with security provided by the Bihar Special Armed Police, according to a Hindustan Times report.
The downgrade, which reduced the couple’s protection from the highest Z category to a lower tier, was later reversed after Lalu Yadav’s public outcry. He expressed disappointment that the “mistake” had been made, emphasizing that the decision had caused inconvenience and security concerns for the family.
The Home Department’s initial decision to alter the security arrangement was not explained in detail. No official statement has been released clarifying the rationale behind the change or the subsequent reversal.
Analysis: Lalu Yadav’s reaction underscores the political sensitivity surrounding security allocations for high‑profile politicians in India. Downgrading protection can be perceived as a punitive or politically motivated action, especially when it involves former chief ministers who retain significant influence. The swift reversal suggests that the government may have responded to both public pressure and potential security assessments that the reduced cover was inadequate. Observers note that security decisions for former leaders often balance cost considerations with the need to protect individuals who remain active in public life. The episode also highlights the role of media coverage in prompting governmental reconsideration of such measures.
Sources
– Hindustan Times, “‘Galti kiya hai’: Lalu Yadav on reversed govt order to downgrade security, vacate bungalow,” July 5 2026, https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/galti-kiya-hai-lalu-yadav-on-reversed-govt-order-to-downgrade-security-vacate-bungalow-101783170175517.html
Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
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