Patna: Tensions in Bihar’s Mokama constituency have resurfaced after an independent candidate was reportedly attacked late on Sunday, days after the region voted in the assembly elections.
Rahul Kumar, who contested as an independent candidate from Mokama, said in his complaint to police that he was assaulted around 9.20pm on 9 November between Teraha and Bazaar Chowk. He alleged that three men targeted him while he was getting off his scooter.
According to Kumar, a man arriving in a Tata Safari first attempted to run him down before the group allegedly attacked him with sticks, rods and wooden batons. The accused have been identified as Shivam alias Golu and Satyam Kumar, both residents of Ward 18 in Mokama, along with one unidentified person.
Kumar said he suffered serious injuries to his head and face, adding that the attackers also damaged his vehicle and threatened to kill him. He contacted the police helpline 112, after which he was taken for medical treatment. Police have begun an investigation.
Past killing of Dularchand haunts constituency
The seat has remained in the spotlight this election season. Mokama is seeing a fierce contest featuring Anant Singh, contesting on a Janata Dal (United) ticket, and Veena Devi, the Mahagathbandhan candidate and wife of Surajbhan Singh.
The area has witnessed repeated violence, including the murder of Dularchand Yadav, a supporter of Jan Suraaj candidate Priyadarshi Piyush and an accused in multiple cases. Yadav was shot dead during campaigning earlier this year, leading to the arrest of Anant Singh. The killing has contributed to an increasingly volatile political climate.
Post-poll tensions despite high turnout
Voting in Mokama took place under heightened security on 6 November, with nearly 65% turnout. Local tensions, however, appear to have persisted beyond polling day.
The latest assault on Rahul Kumar has revived fears of retaliatory violence in a constituency long associated with political strongmen. Police officials said surveillance has been stepped up and inquiries are ongoing.
A new entrant in a fraught battlefield
Kumar, who contested on the “apple” symbol, positioned himself as a clean, non-criminal alternative in a constituency often dominated by figures with criminal histories. But he now finds himself a victim of the political hostilities he pledged to rise above.
Authorities have yet to confirm the motive behind the attack. Kumar maintains it was driven by political rivalry.
