New Delhi: Former MLA and JD(U) candidate from Mokama, Anant Singh, was arrested late Sunday night in connection with the murder of Jan Suraaj campaign worker Dular Chand Yadav.
A special team led by Patna SSP Kartikeya K Sharma apprehended Singh from the Kargil Market area in Barh and transported him to Patna for questioning. Two of his close associates, Manikant Thakur and Ranjit Ram were also detained.
“On October 30, supporters of rival candidates clashed in Mokama during campaigning. Stone-pelting ensued, and later a body was recovered. Three individuals have been arrested on charges of murder,” SSP Sharma confirmed. He added that the police will seek Singh’s custody to expedite interrogation and move for judicial custody.
Clash turns fatal
The violent confrontation took place on October 30. It left several people injured due to the intense stone pelting between political supporters. Seventy-five-year old Dular Chand Yadav’s body was later discovered at the scene. The post-mortem report cites cardiac arrest resulting from injuries to his heart and lungs inflicted by a hard, blunt object. A gunshot wound near the ankle was noted but deemed non-fatal.
“The accused did not surrender voluntarily—they were apprehended. Raids are underway to track down others involved,” Sharma said.
CID steps in, EC orders action
The Bihar CID has taken over the probe, with DIG Jayant Kant visiting the crime site at Basawan Chak. Forensic teams recovered stones similar to those used on railway tracks, raising suspicion of premeditation.
The Election Commission ordered the immediate transfer of the Patna Rural SP and disciplinary action against three officers. It has also demanded a detailed report from the DGP.
District Magistrate Dr. Tyagarajan S.M. said security measures have been intensified across Patna district, with over 50 checkpoints in each constituency and CAPF deployment. Authorities have ordered deposit of licensed firearms and are conducting operations to seize illegal weapons.
Piyush Priyadarshi, Jan Suraaj’s Mokama candidate, welcomed the arrest but questioned the delay. “He campaigned in a convoy despite the FIR. Still, the arrest is a relief for the victim’s family,” he said.
Bihar votes on November 6 and 11, with counting slated for November 14.