Patna Police have arrested former MLA and JDU candidate Anant Singh late at night in connection with the Dularchand Yadav murder case in Mokama, while he was apprehended from Kargil Market in Barh, where he was reportedly prepared to surrender upon the arrival of the police. The arrest operation was led by Patna SSP Kartikeya Sharma, involving approximately 150 police personnel. Upon the police's arrival, Anant Singh cooperated without resistance, getting into a white Scorpio with the officers. No commotion or protest was reported from his supporters during the arrest, ensuring a peaceful operation.
Timeline of the Dularchand Yadav Murder Case
This arrest follows a clash that occurred on October 30, which resulted in the death of 75-year-old Dularchand Yadav, while according to Patna SSP Kartikeya Sharma, the altercation involved groups of two candidates, leading to stone-pelting and several injuries. Dularchand Yadav's body was recovered after the incident; he was a resident of the same village where the clash took place. The victim's grandson filed a named First Information Report (FIR) against Anant Singh and three others. On top of that, Jan Suraj candidate Piyush Priyadarshi filed an FIR against six individuals, and the police registered a separate FIR based on their investigation. Based on evidence, eyewitness testimonies, and the post-mortem report, the police concluded that the incident violated the Model Code of Conduct and was a serious matter, with Anant Singh's presence at the scene making him the prime accused.
Along with Anant Singh, his associates Manikant Thakur and Ranjit Ram were also arrested, while sSP Kartikeya Sharma stated that a total of three individuals have been arrested on murder charges, and raids are ongoing to apprehend other accused. He clarified that these three individuals didn't surrender but were arrested. The police will seek their remand from the court as soon as possible to commence further investigation. According to Dularchand Yadav's post-mortem report, he sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, which proved fatal. The report indicated an entry and exit wound, though the bullet itself wasn't recovered. In addition to Anant Singh, a total of 21 other individuals have been arrested in connection. With this incident, and 80 people were arrested the previous day for attempting to influence the elections.
Administrative Action and Election Commission's Firm Stance
In response to the Dularchand Yadav murder case, the Election Commission has adopted a very strict stance. The Commission has immediately transferred four officers, including the Superintendent of Police (SP), and suspended one officer. Also, the Station House Officers (SHOs) of Bhadaur and Ghoswari police stations have also been suspended. These actions were taken based on allegations of negligence during the election process and a failure to exercise due diligence in a sensitive matter. The Commission has made it clear that any laxity in maintaining law and order won't be tolerated. Patna DM Dr. Tyagarajan SM stated that the incident has been taken very seriously, and. The administration has been working day and night for the past 48 hours. The situation is now completely normal.
Security Measures and Commitment to Fair Elections
Given the tense situation in Mokama, security arrangements have been tightened. Additional police forces have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents. RJD candidate Veena Devi, Anant Singh, and Jan Suraj candidate Piyush Priyadarshi have been provided with additional security. Patna DM Dr. Tyagarajan SM emphasized that the district administration and police are taking the incident in. The Mokama assembly constituency very seriously and are committed to ensuring free and fair elections. He stated that the Model Code of Conduct is a strong pillar of the entire election process, and strict action will be taken against any anti-social elements attempting to violate the law or the Model Code of Conduct. The administration has issued directives for 100% weapon deposit, and more than 50 checking points have been established in each assembly constituency, while the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) is also conducting checks, and raids are being carried out to seize illegal weapons. The CID has also initiated an investigation into the matter to ensure that all aspects are thoroughly examined.
