Patna, [28/05/26]: In a fresh development that has reignited political tensions in Bihar, former Chief Minister Rabri Devi has been served another eviction notice by the state government, directing her to vacate the government bungalow allotted to her. This marks the latest chapter in a prolonged legal and administrative battle over the possession of the official residence located on Deshratna Marg, Patna.T
he notice, issued by the Building Construction Department of the Bihar government, gives the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief a stipulated timeframe to vacate the premises. According to official sources, the government argues that the allotment of the bungalow was made under specific rules that pertain to former Chief Ministers, and that Rabri Devi is no longer eligible to retain the accommodation.
Background of the Dispute
the tussle over the bungalow is not new. Earlier, the Nitish Kumar-led government had issued similar notices, which were challenged by Rabri Devi in the courts. The legal contention revolves around the interpretation of government housing rules for former Chief Ministers. While the state government maintains that only those former CMs who are still serving as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) or Members of Parliament (MPs) are entitled to government housing, Rabri Devi, though a former CM, is currently neither an MLA nor an MP.
Rabri Devi, who served as Bihar’s Chief Minister from 1997 to 2005, has been using the bungalow as her primary residence for years. Her family, including her daughters and son Tejashwi Yadav (Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly), have frequently used the premises for political meetings and personal purposes.
The Government’s Stand
A senior official from the Building Construction Department stated, “The notice has been issued following the due process of law. The earlier eviction order was stayed by the court, but that interim relief has expired. Since no further legal stay is in effect, the department is compelled to enforce the eviction. The bungalow is a government asset meant for serving dignitaries or those who qualify under specific rules.”
The notice reportedly warns of a penalty and forcible eviction if Rabri Devi fails to comply within the given timeline, which is believed to be 15 to 30 days.
Political Reactions
The opposition RJD has termed the eviction notice a “vindictive political witch-hunt.” Party spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari said, “Rabri Devi is a former Chief Minister, and she has every right to government accommodation. The Nitish Kumar government is acting at the behest of the BJP to harass the Yadav family. This is pettiness in politics.”
Meanwhile, ruling Janata Dal (United) leaders dismissed these allegations, stating that the government is merely following the rule of law. “No one is above the law. If the rules say she is not entitled to the bungalow, she must vacate. There should be no VIP culture,” said a senior JD(U) minister.
What Next?
Rabri Devi’s legal team is expected to move the High Court again, seeking a fresh stay on the eviction. Sources close to the RJD family confirm that they will challenge the notice on the grounds of procedural lapses and humanitarian considerations.
As the political temperature in Patna rises ahead of the upcoming by-elections, the eviction notice to Rabri Devi is set to become a major flashpoint. Whether the former Chief Minister will vacate the bungalow voluntarily or face a prolonged legal battle remains to be seen. For now, the “first family” of Bihar politics is staring at yet another confrontation with the state machinery.
Conclusion
The repeated eviction notice to Rabri Devi underscores the ongoing friction between Bihar’s ruling coalition and the RJD. While the government cites legal compliance and rationalization of state resources, the opposition sees it as a targeted attack. The coming weeks will be crucial as the Patna High Court’s response will determine the fate of one of the most politically significant addresses in the state.