Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) legislators demanded an apology from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on February 16, 2026. This came after an RJD MLA called their late leader Ram Vilas Paswan “bechara” (hapless) in the Bihar Assembly. The remark triggered protests that disrupted the Budget session, forcing Speaker Prem Kumar to adjourn the House until lunch. The controversy began with RJD MLA Kumar Sarvajeet’s speech on February 11, where he called Paswan “bechara” while praising his political contribution. LJP (RV) leaders, including Chirag Paswan, Ram Vilas Paswan’s son, strongly opposed this. On February 15, LJP (RV) protested in Patna, burning an effigy of RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, accusing RJD of being anti-Dalit. Kumar Sarvajeet said, “The LJP (RV) is trying to deflect attention from assaults on SC, ST, and OBC rights by the BJP-led government.” At the session start, LJP (RV) MLAs shouted slogans demanding an apology. Raju Tiwari, LJP (RV) legislature party leader, said, “The RJD MLA’s remarks reflect the Opposition party’s anti-Dalit mindset.” The LJP (RV), formed after a 2021 party split, won 19 seats in the 2025 state elections. Amid the protests, RJD members demanded raising the reservation quota for deprived castes from 50% to 85%. RJD MLA Bhai Virendra Yadav said, “If the ruling NDA raises the reservation to 85%, we too will support them.” The Budget session will continue until February 27.