What Happened in Bihar Polls with Viral Cash-for-Votes Video?
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Synopsis
A controversial video allegedly showing BJP MLA Lalbabu Prasad Gupta distributing cash to voters has gone viral just before Bihar's second phase of polling, igniting a political firestorm. This incident, compounded by claims of discarded VVPAT slips, raises serious questions about electoral integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Controversial video of cash distribution raises questions about electoral integrity.
- Legal action initiated against BJP candidate for breaching election conduct.
- RJD raises alarm over discarded VVPAT slips, calling for accountability.
- Election Commission enhances surveillance in response to allegations.
- Calls for transparency and fairness in the electoral process continue to grow.
Patna, Nov 11 (NationPress) Just one day ahead of the second phase of voting in Bihar, a controversial video surfaced on social media, allegedly showing BJP MLA and Chiraiya candidate Lalbabu Prasad Gupta distributing cash to voters, sparking a significant political uproar.
The clip, released mere hours before the polls, appears to depict Gupta handing money to a woman, as onlookers witness the exchange.
This viral footage has incited turmoil within the political landscape of the region.
In light of the video’s circulation, authorities have initiated a case against the BJP candidate for purportedly breaching the Model Code of Conduct.
East Champaran SP Swarn Prabhat commented that the viral clip shows Gupta with a group of individuals, some visibly holding cash, which prima facie constitutes a violation of the MCC. An FIR has been filed at the Patahi police station.
The Election Commission has already sent additional monitoring teams to various districts ahead of Phase 2, yet this incident highlights ongoing attempts at voter inducement despite stringent enforcement.
In another related controversy prior to Phase-2 voting in Bihar, a viral video emerged claiming that VVPAT slips were discovered discarded in a roadside ditch in the Maharajganj Assembly constituency of Siwan district.
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) shared this clip on X, tagging the Election Commission and alleging electoral irregularities.
The RJD claimed that VVPAT slips were found discarded, accusing outside influences of attempting to undermine democratic processes.
The party demanded an immediate response from the Election Commission, emphasizing that if the Commission’s intentions are truly honest and transparent, they must address the matter officially.
Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha also chimed in, stating, “Even if this is merely for appearances… a clarification is essential — or should we seek the reason behind their silence?”
In response to the complaint, the district administration disclosed that they received reports on November 10 regarding EVM/VVPAT slips located near Mauli ka Bathan in Siwan.
An official team investigated and found that the slips originated from the 112-Maharajganj Assembly constituency and were related to the commissioning stage of the machines.
Authorities confirmed that these slips were intended to be destroyed on-site by the personnel present using a shredding machine, and that the commissioning was conducted in the presence of contesting candidates and their election agents.
The Siwan administration described this situation as negligence, with the responsible staff promptly suspended, and departmental proceedings initiated.
An FIR is also being filed at the local police station, and a thorough investigation has been ordered.
All candidates contesting for the 112-Maharajganj seat have been notified of the actions taken, as officials confirmed.
Point of View
It's crucial to observe that these incidents occurring in Bihar reflect ongoing challenges within our democratic framework. Allegations of cash distribution and irregularities like discarded VVPAT slips undermine public trust. It’s essential for all political entities to uphold electoral integrity and transparency, ensuring that the will of the people prevails.
NationPress
11/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cash-for-votes allegation in Bihar?
The cash-for-votes allegation refers to a viral video showing BJP MLA Lalbabu Prasad Gupta allegedly distributing cash to voters just before polling.
What actions have been taken regarding the video?
An FIR has been lodged against Lalbabu Prasad Gupta for violating the Model Code of Conduct, and the Election Commission has increased surveillance.
What are VVPAT slips and why are they important?
VVPAT slips are paper records of votes cast in electronic voting machines, providing transparency and verification of the voting process.
What did the RJD claim about the VVPAT slips?
The RJD claimed that VVPAT slips were found discarded in a roadside ditch, alleging serious electoral irregularities.
What is the response from the Siwan administration regarding the VVPAT issue?
The Siwan administration confirmed that the slips were from the commissioning stage and were supposed to be destroyed, and actions have been taken against the responsible staff.
