A recording of a recent phone conversation, in which Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Bhai Virendra is allegedly heard telling a local panchayat secretary from his Maner Assembly constituency that he would “beat him with a shoe”, has gone viral on social media, prompting the MLA to issue a clarification.
Bhai Virendra, a four-time MLA from Maner known for his close association with former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad and current Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav, had contacted the panchayat secretary regarding the matter of a death certificate for one Avinash Kumar. The panchayat secretary initially failed to recognise Virendra by name during the call, which led to a dispute over protocol and respect.
They subsequently had a heated exchange, including threats and accusations of misconduct.
After an audio clip of the call went viral, Virendra issued a statement on his Facebook page, acknowledging the use of strong language during the call but attributing this to the panchayat secretary’s tone, which he described as dismissive and disrespectful. He claimed that the official neither greeted him nor took the matter seriously, which led to the exchange escalating.
The RJD leader further criticised the panchayat secretary for recording and leaking the call without consent, arguing that it was a violation of privacy laws and government conduct rules. He also assured his constituents that he remained committed to helping the public and holding officials accountable for their performance.
Bhai Virendra has long been a prominent and controversial figure in Bihar politics, frequently drawing attention for his blunt and outspoken ways.
Last week, he drew criticism during the Monsoon Session of the Bihar Legislative Assembly for allegedly using unparliamentary language. In a heated debate on the issue of electoral rolls in the poll-bound state, he purportedly remarked, “Kya Vidhan Sabha kisi ke baap ki hai (Is the Assembly someone’s father’s property)?”
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Despite repeated objections and calls for an apology from the Speaker, Virendra stood by his comment and categorically refused to apologise.
Virendra has represented the Maner constituency since 2010. Having secured four consecutive terms, he has been a key player in the RJD’s organisational structure. Currently serving as a senior spokesperson for the party, he wields considerable influence both inside the party and at the grassroots level.
