EC cracks whip after Mokama violence; takes action against 4 cops

Cracking down on administrative lapses after fresh violence in Bihar’s Mokama, the Election Commission on Saturday ordered the transfer of Patna SP (Rural) Vikram Sihag and initiated disciplinary proceedings against three other senior officers, in what is being seen as the poll body’s toughest action ahead of the Assembly elections.

The shake-up follows the murder of Jan Suraaj Party supporter Dularchand Yadav, whose killing has triggered widespread tensions in Mokama, a politically volatile constituency near Patna.

Violence erupted on Friday when Yadav’s supporters allegedly pelted stones at the vehicle of Rashtriya Janata Dal candidate Veena Devi, prompting fears of further unrest just days before polling.

In a letter sent to the Bihar Chief Electoral Officer, the commission directed the immediate transfer of Sihag, asking the state government to urgently propose a panel of officers to replace him.

The same order also announced the replacement and disciplinary action against SDO Barh Chandan Kumar, SDPO Barh-1 Rakesh Kumar, and SDPO Barh-2 Abhishek Singh, all of whom were posted in the Mokama-Barh region. The EC further ordered that Abhishek be placed under suspension with immediate effect.

Citing the need to ensure an impartial 'law and order environment' before polling, the commission has sought a compliance report from the state government by noon on November 2.

Elections to the Bihar Assembly will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11, while counting of votes will take place on November 14.