Controversial Remarks by Union Minister Spark Legal Action in Bihar Elections
Legal Action Against Lalan Singh Over Election Comments
A case has been filed against Union Minister and JD(U) leader Lalan Singh at the Mokama police station in Bihar due to controversial remarks made during a roadshow supporting party candidate Anant Singh. Singh's speech, which allegedly incited supporters to prevent certain opposition leaders from leaving their homes on election day, went viral, prompting the Election Commission to issue a notice seeking clarification on why action should not be taken against him. The local administration has also been asked to submit a report.
In a widely circulated video clip, Singh can reportedly be heard saying, "There are some leaders; do not let them out of their homes on voting day. Keep them inside." Targeting the JD(U) leader, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) condemned him for allegedly inciting his supporters to stop opposition voters from casting their ballots during the Bihar Assembly elections.
The RJD accused Singh of "running a bulldozer over the Election Commission's authority."
RJD spokesperson Priyanka Bharti echoed this outrage, labeling it a "state-sponsored threat" and questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence amid ongoing attacks on the opposition, referred to as 'jungle raj.' In a post on social media, she wrote, "On voting day, do not let the opposition leader out of their home! Keep them confined indoors; if they resist too much, take them along and let them vote. ~Lalan Singh" She further urged the Election Commission to wake up and verify the authenticity of this gentleman's intimidating statements and take appropriate action.
Mokama, where the first phase of voting is scheduled for November 6, is expected to witness a high-stakes electoral battle once again in the 2025 elections. The Janata Dal (United) has fielded prominent leader Anant Singh, while the Rashtriya Janata Dal has nominated Veena Devi, the wife of former MP and influential leader Surajbhan Singh. Priyadarshi Piyush is contesting from the Jan Suraj Party. Voting for Bihar's 243-seat assembly will take place in two phases on November 6 and 11, with the counting of votes set for November 14.