Patna has been shaken by the murder of Dularchand Yadav, a supporter of the Jan Suraaj Party, during election campaigning in Mokama, Bihar, on October 30, 2025. The killing has not only reignited political tensions in the state but has also led to swift administrative action, with two station house officers (SHOs) being suspended over alleged lapses in law enforcement.

According to the Rural Superintendent of Police (SP) of Patna, Ghoswari SHO Madhusudan Kumar and Bhadaur SHO Ravi Ranjan have been suspended in connection with the case. The suspensions come amid mounting political pressure and widespread criticism over the handling of security arrangements in the constituency, which is known for its volatile political environment and history of violent clashes between rival factions.

The Incident

The tragic event occurred during a campaign for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, when Dularchand Yadav was reportedly shot and killed amidst firing between rival groups. The details suggest that tensions escalated quickly during the campaign, turning a politically charged atmosphere into a deadly confrontation.

Officials have noted that the violence underscores long-standing issues in Mokama, a region historically associated with strong political figures and influential “bahubalis” — local strongmen with considerable sway over voter behavior and political outcomes. Past incidents in Mokama have frequently involved clashes between supporters of rival parties, often resulting in casualties and heightened electoral tension.

Political Reactions

The murder of Dularchand Yadav has elicited strong reactions from political leaders across the spectrum. RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan Chief Ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav condemned the violence, stating that acts of such nature have no place in a democratic society. Speaking to the media, he questioned both the administration and the Election Commission of India regarding the measures taken to prevent such incidents and ensure voter safety.

Tejashwi emphasized the need for strict action against those responsible for fomenting violence and underscored that electoral contests must proceed peacefully, without intimidation or the threat of physical harm. His statement reflects concerns over how such incidents could influence voter behavior and the overall credibility of the electoral process.

Mokama: A Constituency Marked by Political Volatility

Mokama, part of Patna district, has long been in the political limelight due to the influence of “strongmen” or bahubalis. Historically, figures like Anant Kumar Singh, his brother Dilip Singh, and Surajbhan Singh have played key roles in shaping the political landscape of the region. These leaders are known for their formidable control over local politics, which often includes elements of coercion, intimidation, and at times, violent confrontations.

The murder of Dularchand Yadav has once again highlighted the volatility of this constituency, where the interplay of political legacies and community loyalties frequently dictates election outcomes. Analysts note that incidents such as this can shift voter sentiment, intensify local tensions, and impact the strategies of political parties in the area.

Implications for the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections

Mokama is set to vote in the first phase of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections on November 6, making the timing of the incident particularly significant. The constituency has become a battleground between Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidates, each representing influential political families.

The JD(U) has fielded Anant Singh, a well-known local strongman, while the RJD has nominated Veena Devi, wife of the late Surajbhan Singh, another prominent figure with a long-standing political presence in the region. Both candidates belong to the Bhumihaar community, setting the stage for a direct clash of political legacies and personal networks that have historically shaped electoral dynamics in Mokama.

The recent violence and the murder of Dularchand Yadav add another layer of complexity to the election scenario, raising concerns about voter intimidation, campaign safety, and the ability of law enforcement agencies to maintain order during the high-stakes polling period.

Administrative Measures and Law Enforcement Action

In response to the incident, the Patna Rural SP took decisive action by suspending the SHOs of Ghoswari and Bhadaurpolice stations, citing “dereliction of duty” in maintaining law and order during the campaign period. While investigations into the exact circumstances of the shooting continue, the suspensions reflect the administration’s effort to hold local police accountable for lapses that may have contributed to the deadly outcome.

Authorities have indicated that the investigation is ongoing, with a focus on identifying the individuals directly involved in the shooting, understanding the chain of events leading up to the incident, and determining whether security arrangements for election campaigning were adequate. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to murder, unlawful assembly, and firearm violations.

Broader Concerns About Electoral Violence

The murder of Dularchand Yadav also highlights the persistent issue of electoral violence in certain regions of Bihar. Analysts point out that constituencies dominated by strongmen often witness a blend of political rivalry and community-based tensions that can erupt into violence, especially during campaign seasons.

The incident has sparked discussions among policymakers and civil society groups regarding the need for stricter enforcement of election laws, improved policing strategies, and measures to ensure that voters and candidates can participate in the democratic process safely. It also underscores the role of the Election Commission in monitoring high-risk constituencies and deploying sufficient security personnel to prevent clashes.

Looking Ahead

With the Bihar Assembly elections scheduled in two phases — the first on November 6 and the second on November 11— and bye-elections for eight seats across seven states and Union Territories also slated for November 11, the timing of Dularchand Yadav’s murder has intensified scrutiny of election preparedness and law enforcement readiness. The results for both the assembly and bye-elections will be declared on November 14, 2025.

Observers note that the Mokama incident may influence both voter sentiment and campaign strategies in the remaining days leading up to polling. Parties may need to navigate heightened tensions while ensuring that security measures are visible and effective. Meanwhile, residents of Mokama are left grappling with the dual reality of political fervor and the potential dangers associated with a high-stakes election environment.

Conclusion

The suspension of the SHOs in the Dularchand Yadav murder case reflects an attempt by the administration to address accountability lapses in law enforcement during an election period. However, the incident also serves as a stark reminder of the broader challenges that persist in constituencies dominated by influential political families and local strongmen.

As the elections approach, the focus will likely remain on maintaining peace, ensuring safe campaigning, and upholding the democratic process. The tragedy of Dularchand Yadav’s death has cast a shadow over the political landscape of Mokama, emphasizing the need for vigilance, swift administrative action, and robust law enforcement to prevent further escalation of violence in the run-up to polling.

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