Lalu Prasad says RSS dropped shorts because of Rabri Devi

Lalu said it was Rabri's January remark "Aren't RSS oldies ashamed to wear half-pants in public?" that embarrassed the organisation. Pics/AFP,PTI

Patna: RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Wednesday credited his wife and former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi for the change in the RSS's dress code from khaki shorts to trousers.

"We forced the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) members to wear trousers. Rabri Devi had pointed out their (RSS men's) lack of decency. Elderly cadres shamelessly roamed around freely in half-pants," said Lalu.

Lalu took the dig at the organisation a day after its members started wearing trousers, bidding adieu to the shorts - their traditional uniform. The RJD leader said it was his wife's January remark "Aren't the RSS oldies ashamed to wear half-pants in public?" that embarrassed the Hindu organisation. "Rabri Devi's comment forced the change in RSS' dress code," Lalu said. Lalu also tweeted that the RSS would similarly be forced to change its mindset.

"Right now, we have forced them to wear trousers... but their thinking also needs a transformation... we will force them to shun weapons and would not allow them to spread venom." Rabri Devi had earlier faced criticism from several top leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party, including union ministers, for her comments.