Mokama Assembly Election 2025: Rivalry Between JDU's Anant Singh And RJD's Suraj Bhan Singh Intensifies

In Mokama, a constituency just 95 km from Patna, the election battle is more about personalities than parties. Two notorious figures, Anant Singh and Suraj Bhan Singh, are contesting from opposing alliances. Vinay Singh, a local businessman, remarked, "It's a clash of personalities rather than parties." This rivalry has intensified following the murder of Dularchand Yadav.

Suraj Bhan Singh, known as "Dada," was seen preparing for his campaign in a vibrant yellow kurta. Despite an injured foot, he interacted with supporters at his residence in Mokama town. His house buzzed with activity as supporters gathered under a large canopy outside. Vehicles and publicity vans filled the premises as preparations continued.

Political Dynamics in Mokama

Anant Singh's family has dominated Mokama politics since 1990. Except for a brief period between 2000 and 2005 when Suraj Bhan Singh won as an Independent candidate, Anant Singh's influence remained unchallenged. He reclaimed the seat in 2005 and has held it since, even switching parties occasionally.

Suraj Bhan Singh's political journey includes winning the Lok Sabha election from Balia in 2004. His wife Veena Devi later contested and won from Munger on a Lok Janshakti Party ticket in 2014. The couple's political affiliations have shifted over time, with Veena now representing Mahagathbandhan against Anant Singh.

The Battle for Votes

Mokama's electorate consists of around 2.89 lakh voters. The upper caste Bhumihar community forms the majority with approximately 85,000 voters. Other significant groups include Yadavs and various backward classes totaling over 95,000 voters combined.

The constituency is situated along the Ganga River and is known for its fertile lands where farmers grow lentils and other crops. Once home to industries like Bharat Wagon and Bata footwear manufacturing units, these enterprises are now defunct.

Criminal Allegations and Tensions

The recent murder of Dularchand Yadav has heightened tensions in Mokama. Allegations point towards Anant Singh's supporters being involved in the incident. A post-mortem report revealed that Yadav died from "cardio-pulmonary failure with blunt injury to the chest and head."

According to ADR data, 32% of candidates in Bihar Assembly elections have criminal cases against them, with 27% facing serious charges. This adds another layer of complexity to Mokama's electoral battle.

Upcoming Elections

Mokama will vote on November 6, with results expected on November 14. As the election approaches, both camps continue their campaigns amidst allegations and past rivalries that define this unique political landscape.