In a move that’s turning heads in Bihar’s political landscape, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will soon travel in bulletproof Range Rover luxury SUVs. The state administration has greenlit the purchase of four such vehicles, costing a whopping Rs 11.17 crore in total. This represents a stark departure from Kumar’s image as an austere leader who favored electric and Indian-made cars.
Historically, the CM has traversed the state in eco-friendly electric vehicles, promoting green initiatives at every public event. The decision to invest in foreign luxury models has opposition parties up in arms, branding it as a symptom of his ‘new alliances.’ The vehicles are tailored for elite security: bulletproof exteriors, explosive-resistant undercarriages, and state-of-the-art surveillance tools ensure comprehensive protection.
Security evaluations by central and state agencies highlighted the need for upgraded mobility solutions. Two Rovers will lead the CM’s motorcade, while the others serve as reserves. Priced at Rs 2.79 crore apiece, these beasts are standard for world leaders facing similar threats.
Ruling camp spokespersons insist it’s purely about enhanced safety in turbulent times, dismissing luxury critiques. Yet, rivals from RJD and others see it as evidence of lavish influences post-Kumar’s political flip-flops. With procurement underway, Bihar’s polity braces for a prolonged tussle over symbols of power and privilege, testing the CM’s long-standing simplicity narrative.