Archive · 12 Dec 2025
Bihar's Anti-Encroachment Drive Sparks Political Row
The Bihar government is removing illegal structures and encroachments on roads, footpaths, and water bodies.
This has led to the demolition of small businesses and homes, affecting many poor residents.
The opposition parties, like RJD and Congress, are criticizing the government for not having a proper rehabilitation plan and for targeting the poor.
The government says they are following court orders and will provide temporary shelters and rehabilitation.
The drive has sparked a political row, with the opposition comparing it to the 'bulldozer model' used in Uttar Pradesh.
Residents are worried about their livelihoods and where they will go after the demolitions.
Bihar government is conducting an anti-encroachment drive, demolishing illegal structures on roads, footpaths, and water bodies.
Opposition parties criticize the lack of rehabilitation plans for affected residents, comparing the drive to Uttar Pradesh's 'bulldozer model'.
The drive has intensified after the recent Assembly elections, affecting areas like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and other districts.
Residents express concerns about their livelihoods and lack of alternatives, with some receiving short notice for eviction.
The government claims the drive is a legal process with advance notices and promises temporary shelters and rehabilitation plans.
- Who
- Bihar government, opposition parties (RJD, Congress), and affected residents
- What
- Anti-encroachment drive leading to demolitions and evictions
- When
- Intensified in late November and early December, ongoing
- Where
- Across Bihar, including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and other districts
- Why
- To clear encroachments on roads, footpaths, and water bodies, as per court orders and government's development plans
- Land Surveyed
- 18 lakh acres
- Encroached Water Bodies
- 15,000 out of 35,000
- Encroached Roads
- 20,000 across the state
- Affected Areas
- Patna, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Sitamarhi, Bhagalpur, Siwan, Lakhisarai, Bihar Sharif
- Government's Stance
- Acting on court orders, claims to provide temporary shelters and rehabilitation plans
