Motihari: A fierce political storm erupted in Bihar ahead of the second phase of polling on 11 November, after an FIR was filed against BJP and NDA candidate Lalbabu Prasad Gupta from the Chiraiya Assembly constituency in Motihari. The action followed the circulation of a video purportedly showing the candidate distributing money to villagers.
The clip, widely shared on social media, shows Gupta seated among residents, allegedly handing out cash. Opposition parties accused him of violating the Model Code of Conduct, demanding the cancellation of his candidature.
Motihari Superintendent of Police Swaran Prabhat confirmed that the video had been examined. “Based on the magistrate’s report, an FIR has been lodged at Patahi police station,” he said, adding that a detailed investigation was underway.
RJD Supporter Arrested With ₹3 Lakh Cash in Motihari
In a separate incident, Motihari police arrested Sabba Khan, a known supporter of RJD candidate Deva Gupta, on charges of distributing cash and party material to influence voters.
Acting on a tip-off, a police team led by City Police Station Chief Rajiv Ranjan conducted a raid in Ward No. 17. Officers recovered ₹3 lakh in cash, along with RJD campaign pamphlets and stickers, which have been seized.
Preliminary investigation suggests that Khan was actively working with RJD workers and was preparing to distribute money in the constituency.
“Strict action will be taken against any violation of the Election Commission’s guidelines,” SP Swaran Prabhat said, urging all parties to maintain democratic decorum during the campaign.
Discarded VVPAT Slips Found in Siwan, Investigation On
Adding to the tension, a large number of VVPAT slips were found discarded in an empty plot in Siwan, where first-phase polling was held last week. Locals alerted authorities after spotting the slips, sparking protests in the area.
Sadar SDO Ashutosh Kumar Gupta and SDPO Ajay Kumar Singh reached the site but faced resistance from villagers who demanded an explanation. According to initial reports, many of the slips bore the name of RJD candidate Vishal Jaiswal from the Maharajganj Assembly constituency.
Officials have begun an inquiry to determine the source of the discarded slips and whether they were used, unused or mishandled.
