EC Orders FIR Against JD(U)'s Lalan Singh for Alleged Poll Code Violation
ECI files FIR against JD(U) minister for election intimidation remarks.
An FIR has been registered against Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, alias Lalan Singh, a prominent Janata Dal (United) leader, following directives from the Election Commission of India after a controversial video surfaced on social media. The footage, captured in the Mokama region, depicts Singh allegedly directing supporters to restrict the movements of certain leaders on polling day, prompting swift action from authorities to uphold electoral integrity amid Bihar's ongoing assembly elections.
In the viral clip, Singh is heard advising, “Some leaders should not be allowed to leave their homes on the day of elections. If they plead too much, take them with you, and after voting, bring them back home and put them to bed. Take charge now. There is no time left for elections.” This statement has ignited debates over potential voter suppression tactics, with the ECI viewing it as a violation warranting legal scrutiny in the sensitive pre-poll environment.
JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar countered the allegations, claiming the video was deliberately distorted and stripped of context for political gain. He defended Singh's intent as motivational rather than coercive, urging restraint in interpreting the remarks amid heightened campaign rhetoric. The party maintains that such narratives are fabricated to undermine their standing in key constituencies like Munger Lok Sabha, where Singh serves as representative.
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RJD MP Manoj Jha sharply criticized the incident, juxtaposing it against the NDA's repeated accusations of 'jungle raj' under previous regimes. He questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the implications of a cabinet colleague allegedly promoting undemocratic measures, highlighting perceived inconsistencies in the ruling alliance's governance narrative. RJD further amplified the video, accusing Singh of brazenly disregarding ECI guidelines.
The controversy unfolds as Mokama assembly constituency heads to polls in the first phase on Thursday, part of Bihar's fiercely contested elections. With alliances locked in battle, this episode underscores the ECI's vigilance against inflammatory speech, potentially influencing voter sentiment and underscoring the stakes for JD(U) in retaining influence within the NDA framework.
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