The Bihar government on Saturday restored ‘Z’ category security for Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, weeks after their security cover was downgraded.
The decision was announced through an official order issued by the Special Branch of the Home department following a recommendation from the State Security Committee, per a report by News18.
Enhanced security cover restored
Under the revised security arrangement, both leaders will receive a dedicated bulletproof vehicle along with protection from a specialised Headquarters Reaction Team (HQRT).
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The move marks a change in the security arrangements for the two senior RJD leaders. The restored ‘Z’ category cover provides an upgraded security detail aimed at ensuring their safety.
#WATCH | Patna, Bihar | On Z-category security cover according to him and his wife, former Bihar CM Rabri Devi, RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav says, "(The government is) on the back foot."
— ANI (@ANI) July 4, 2026
On being asked if the Bihar government had wronged them by revoking their security cover… pic.twitter.com/zNb53PfkhH
Security changes in June
The development comes nearly a month after the Bihar government withdrew the couple’s Z-plus security cover.
On June 6, Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi asked the remaining security personnel stationed outside their residence at 10 Circular Road in Patna to leave after the revised security order came into effect.
The changes coincided with another government decision asking Rabri Devi to vacate the official residence at 10 Circular Road, which has since been allotted to Bihar Minister Nand Kishore Ram.
According to the state government’s notice, Rabri Devi had already been allotted an alternative government residence on Hardinge Road in her capacity as the Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Council, but had not shifted there.
CM Samrat Chaudhary’s remarks
Earlier, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary commented on the issue of former public representatives continuing to occupy government residences after leaving office.
Speaking at a public event in Sheikhpura, he had said, “The Chief Minister’s residence belongs to the people. It cannot be treated as anyone’s personal fiefdom or ancestral property,”
He also said that he had vacated his own government accommodation within 24 hours of his tenure ending.
With the latest order, Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi will once again receive enhanced state security as directed by the Bihar government’s revised protocol.
FAQs:
What security has been restored for Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi?
The Bihar government has reinstated ‘Z’ category security for both leaders.
What additional protection will they receive?
They will be provided with a dedicated bulletproof vehicle and protection from a specialised Headquarters Reaction Team (HQRT).
