Mahi Shrivastava, Bhopal: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary’s remark that the state may have “crime” but no “apraadh” has triggered a political controversy, placing the focus back on law and order in Bihar.
Speaking at an event organised by the National Highways Authority of India in New Delhi on Tuesday, Choudhary said the concept of “apraadh” had been eliminated in Bihar. He added that while crime might occur, there were no criminals in the state.
The remark drew criticism from the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal, with party leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Yadav questioning the Chief Minister’s understanding of law and order. Yadav also referred to a case from the 1990s linked to Choudhary, an allegation the Chief Minister has consistently denied, saying he was falsely implicated.
Focus on Governance
Political observers said the controversy is significant because Choudhary also holds the Home portfolio in Bihar. Any statement on crime and public safety is therefore likely to be closely examined by both supporters and critics of the government.
Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan declined to enter the war of words but backed the Chief Minister’s approach to crime control. He said that as Chief Minister and Home Minister, Choudhary would have relevant facts and figures to support his claim.
Paswan added that he wanted Bihar to become crime-free and emerge as an attractive destination for investors.
Opposition Criticism
The RJD has used the remark to attack the ruling alliance over its record on policing, public safety and governance. The party has questioned whether the state government is taking the issue of crime seriously enough.
The controversy comes at a time when incidents of violence and crime continue to shape political debate in Bihar. Opposition parties have demanded greater accountability from the state government on law-and-order matters.
What Lies Ahead
The Chief Minister’s office has not issued a detailed clarification beyond his original remarks. With the opposition continuing its attack and allies offering measured support, the issue is expected to remain part of Bihar’s political conversation in the coming days.
For now, the episode highlights a larger question: how the state government defines, measures, and communicates its progress on crime control and public safety.