Patna, Nov 12 (NationPress) The Election Commission has lodged an FIR against Jyoti Singh, an independent candidate contesting from the Karakat Assembly constituency, for reportedly breaching the Model Code of Conduct during the ongoing Bihar Assembly elections.

The confirmation of this action came from Bikramganj SDM and Returning Officer Prabhat Kumar.

As per Kumar's statement, Jyoti Singh, who is the spouse of Bhojpuri actor Pawan Singh, was found lodging with her supporters at a hotel in Bikramganj on the night before polling, specifically on November 10.

A team led by the SDM executed a raid at the Vindhyavasini Hotel, where she and approximately 15-18 of her aides were staying, which contravenes election protocols.

According to the Election Commission's regulations, campaigning must halt 48 hours prior to voting, and external campaigners are barred from remaining in the constituency post-campaign period.

“The campaign for the Karakat Assembly concluded at 5 pm on November 9. Despite directives to vacate, Jyoti Singh and her aides continued to occupy the hotel,” stated SDM Prabhat Kumar.

During the raid, it was noted that two of her vehicles had expired permits, while a third was unauthorized.

Furthermore, the hotel register did not accurately reflect all individuals residing in the rooms.

Jyoti Singh, on the other hand, has claimed that she is being unfairly targeted.

She has alleged that the police conducted a search of her room without the presence of female officers, deeming the search unwarranted.

“I was harassed along with my family for four hours. I have committed no wrongdoing. This is a deliberate attempt to undermine me,” she stated, questioning the rationale behind the late-night raid.

Officials clarified that no officers entered the women’s quarters.

Upon discovering female occupants, the team ceased inspections in those rooms and continued to check other areas.

“All individuals present were from outside the constituency and did not cooperate with the election officials,” the SDM remarked, adding that supporters impeded official duties and removed vehicles during the raid.

The SDM confirmed that an FIR has been filed under sections concerning the violation of the Model Code of Conduct and interference with governmental operations.

“Further actions will be executed as per directives from higher authorities,” he remarked.

Voting for the Karakat Assembly seat occurred on November 11, alongside other constituencies like Chenari, Sasaram, Kargahar, Dinara, Nokha, and Dehri within the Rohtas district.

The notable Karakat seat witnessed a multi-faceted contest featuring candidates such as JDU’s Mahabali Singh, CPI(ML)’s Arun Singh, Jan Suraaj’s Yogendra Singh, and Independent Jyoti Singh.