Patna, April 23 : A political controversy has erupted in Bihar following the state governmentâ??s decision to develop satellite townships in 11 cities, including Patna. As part of the plan, the NDA government has imposed a temporary ban on the purchase and sale of land in the identified areas, triggering sharp reactions from Opposition leaders.

Rohini Acharya, daughter of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, strongly criticised the move, calling it shocking and difficult to understand.

In a post on X, Acharya alleged that the decision could adversely impact Biharâ??s already fragile economy.

â??The ban on land transactions in 11 major cities is shocking. Given Biharâ??s current economic condition, such a decision raises serious questions about intent,â?? she said.

She further argued that land transactions form a significant source of revenue and livelihood for many.

â??This impractical decision will worsen the stateâ??s financial condition. For common people, land transactions are often a means to fulfil social and economic responsibilities, as well as a source of financial security,â?? she added.

Acharya also raised concerns over the implementation of the proposed township projects, alleging that the development work could be handed over to corporate entities.

She claimed that valuable land might be allocated at low rates, only to be later sold at high prices within these townships.

The Bihar government, however, maintains that the move is aimed at planned urban expansion and the development of modern infrastructure across key cities in the state.

The issue is expected to intensify political debate in the coming days as the Opposition continues to question the intent and potential impact of the policy.

The Samrat Choudhary government on Wednesday approved 22 proposals in the Cabinet meeting held in Patna, and one of the most important decisions taken during the meeting was the imposition of an immediate moratorium on purchase, sale, transfer of land, development of land, and construction.

It is applied to designated township areas across several cities and towns.

It is applicable to townships in Patna, Sonepur, Gaya, Darbhanga, Saharsa, Purnea and Munger till March 27, 2027, and in Muzaffarpur, Chhapra, Bhagalpur, and Sitamarhi till June 30, 2027.

/IANS