Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) workers gathered to guard Rabri Devi's residence in Patna on June 7, 2026 [1], after the Bihar government withdrew Z-plus security cover [2].
The incident highlights escalating tension between the state government and the RJD leadership. The decision to downgrade the security of former chief ministers serves as a flashpoint for political confrontation in Bihar.
Supporters arrived at the residence armed with sticks to maintain a vigil. An unnamed RJD worker said, "We will guard the house with sticks and stay here day and night" [3]. The workers said they were protecting their leaders to demonstrate that the people of Bihar stand with them [4].
Reports vary on the full scope of the security changes. Some sources said that the withdrawal of the Z-plus cover applied to Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, and Tejashwi Yadav [5], while other reports indicate the move only affected the former chief ministers [6].
Lalu Prasad Yadav responded to the government's decision by rejecting the alternative arrangements. "We reject the revised security cover after the Z-plus withdrawal," Yadav said [7].
The presence of party workers at the residence continues as a protest against the state's decision. These supporters are acting as a makeshift security force, a move that underscores the party's resolve to challenge the government's administrative actions.
“"We will guard the house with sticks and stay here day and night."”
The withdrawal of high-level security for prominent political figures often signals a shift in the state's perception of threat levels or a deliberate move to reduce the prestige and protection of opposition leaders. By replacing official security with party loyalists, the RJD is transforming an administrative dispute into a public demonstration of grassroots strength and loyalty.
