Bihar: RJD MLAs Confined To Tejashwi Yadav's Official Residence In Patna Till Nitish Kumar's Floor Test On 12 February

In a surprising development, all MLAs and MLCs affiliated with Lalu Prasad's Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and three Left parties find themselves confined to Bihar's former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav's official residence in Patna, ahead of the floor test for the newly formed National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in the state as per a report by The New Indian Express.

These lawmakers have been restricted from using their phones, and arrangements have been made for their accommodation until the conclusion of the floor test scheduled for 12 February.

According to the same report, RJD leadership has taken measures to ensure the well-being of these legislators during their stay. Various party leaders have been assigned to oversee the needs of the MLAs and MLCs.

This decision to confine the lawmakers was made following an extensive meeting chaired by RJD chief Lalu Prasad. The MLAs and MLCs were instructed to remain at Tejashwi's residence on 5, Deshratna Marg, in Patna.

A total of 77 RJD MLAs and 12 from CPI-ML, CPI, and CPI(M) attended the legislature party meeting.

Support staff and police personnel accompanying the legislators brought luggage filled with clothes and other essentials to the residence, suggesting prior notification from the RJD leadership about the need for an extended stay.

Moreover, provisions have been made for their meals and other amenities, including recreational activities.

Musicians carrying musical instruments were seen entering the residence in the evening.

Security has been intensified around the premises, with media access prohibited. Additionally, the legislators' mobile phones have reportedly been confiscated.

RJD MP Manoj Jha stated that all legislators from the RJD and other members of the grand alliance willingly opted to stay together for the next 48 hours. He emphasised that they are engaging in discussions on Bihar and national politics, expressing confidence in their stance.

Meanwhile, RJD's chief spokesperson Shakti Yadav stated, “Bihar government could go to any extent out of political vendetta, posing dangers to the democracy and constitution. We have also instances of Operation Lotus. MLAs want to stay together until the floor test is over. In politics, people keep coming and going.”

In contrast, JD(U)'s chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar accused the RJD of acting out of fear, suggesting an acceptance of defeat before the floor test.

BJP leader Nikhil Anand claimed that some RJD MLAs were uncomfortable and criticised the party for holding its legislators hostage, reiterating NDA's confidence in winning the trust vote from the outset.