Has Mokama Violence Triggered a Political Crisis in Bihar?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dularchand Yadav's murder has intensified political controversy in Mokama.
- Tejashwi Yadav criticized the Election Commission's inaction.
- Security measures have been increased in the region.
- The incident highlights the need for electoral reforms.
- Political tensions are escalating as parties exchange accusations.
Patna, Oct 31 (NationPress) The ongoing Bihar Assembly elections have taken a tumultuous turn following the alleged murder in Mokama, which has spiraled into a significant political uproar.
The assassination of strongman Dularchand Yadav and the subsequent assaults on political convoys have escalated tensions in the area, prompting intense reactions from political figures.
Tejashwi Yadav, leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and former Deputy Chief Minister, condemned the violence and criticized both the Election Commission (EC) and the administration for their inadequate response.
While not naming anyone outright, Tejashwi specifically aimed his criticism at JD-U candidate Anant Singh, who is known for his influence in Mokama.
“There should be no place for violence in a democracy,” the RJD leader stated. “How can a convoy of 40 vehicles armed with weapons operate freely during elections? What measures are the Election Commission and the administration taking? Criminals are being shielded while democracy is ridiculed. The EC must take suo motu cognisance and act without delay.”
The police reported that the incident took place on Thursday near Khushhal Chak in Mokama when Jan Suraaj Party candidate Piyush Priyadarshi, also known as Lallu Mukhiya, was campaigning with his followers.
Dularchand Yadav, with a past association with the RJD, was accompanying him.
At the same time, JD-U candidate Anant Singh and his supporters were traveling along the same route.
A heated dispute erupted between the two factions, quickly escalating into stone pelting and violence.
During the altercation, Dularchand Yadav lost his life.
The police have filed an FIR against five individuals, including Anant Singh and his two nephews, Ranveer Singh and Karmveer Singh, on charges of murder.
As of now, no arrests have been made.
In the wake of the incident, tensions soared in Mokama, and further violence broke out on Friday when the convoy of RJD candidate Veena Devi, spouse of former MP Surajbhan Singh, was assaulted with stones while she was campaigning in the Pandarak area.
Eyewitnesses reported that unidentified perpetrators surrounded her convoy, began throwing stones, damaged vehicles, and injured one individual.
Panic ensued in the locality as residents fled for safety.
Police arrived promptly to restore order.
The administration has since reinforced security throughout Mokama and its neighboring regions, deploying additional police forces and enhancing surveillance.
Political analysts note that the violence in Mokama has become a significant flashpoint in an already heated election, with political parties exchanging accusations of criminal activity and abuse of power.
The Election Commission has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.