Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, long celebrated for his simplicity and preference for modest vehicles, is set for a dramatic upgrade. The state government has kicked off the procurement process for bulletproof Range Rover SUVs, marking a first for the veteran leader. This shift from his usual electric vehicles and homegrown cars has sparked widespread debate across political circles.
For years, Kumar has championed environmental causes by opting for electric rides during official tours, sending a strong message on sustainability. The introduction of luxury Range Rovers, however, signals a pivot towards heightened security amid evolving threats. Sources confirm the government is acquiring not one, but four such high-end vehicles to bolster the CM’s convoy and backup fleet.
These Range Rovers come equipped with top-tier ballistic protection, blast-resistant features, advanced communication systems, and cutting-edge safety tech. Security agencies, after regular reviews, deemed them essential for safeguarding the chief minister in potential high-risk scenarios. Each vehicle carries a hefty price tag of approximately 2.79 crore rupees, with the total package approved at over 11 crore for all four.
While the ruling alliance defends the purchase as a routine security measure, opposition voices are crying foul. They label it the ‘effect of new company,’ slyly pointing fingers at Kumar’s recent alignment with the BJP. Political corridors in Patna are abuzz, with this luxury upgrade fueling fresh narratives even before the vehicles hit Bihar’s roads. As the debate intensifies, it underscores the delicate balance between safety protocols and public perceptions of austerity in Bihar’s leadership.