Don't squabble, Lalu tells RJD, JD-U spokespersons

In a bid to send out a message of unity, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief Lalu Prasad on Friday advised spokespersons of his party and ally Janata Dal-United (JD-U) not to squabble publicly.

"Fizul mein na bole," (Don't speak needlessly), he told the media, referring to the spokespersons. "If you don't understand an issue, remain at home and be quiet."

Lalu Prasad made the remark while accepting greetings from party leaders and activists on New Year's day.

He expressed displeasure over what he said were unnecessary remarks by several leaders of his RJD and the JD-U.

"Grand Alliance is intact and united. There is no rift between us. The state government is on the right track," he said.

"Spokespersons must consult, discuss issues with senior leaders and take permission before speaking to the media."

According to RJD leaders, Lalu Prasad is unhappy over his party colleague Raghuvansh Prasad Singh's criticism of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over incidents of crime.

Earlier, JD-U leaders reacted strongly to Lalu's tips to Nitish Kumar on how to deal with the law and order situation.