Protesters Block Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha's Convoy During First Phase of Assembly Elections

Vijay Kumar Sinha, sitting MLA from Lakhisarai, faces Congress's Amaresh Kumar in a contentious electoral battle

An angry crowd blocked Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha's convoy in his Lakhisarai constituency today, throwing slippers and stones while chanting "murdabad" slogans. Sinha, a prominent Bhumihar leader and three-time MLA seeking reelection, was visiting polling stations during Bihar's first phase of Assembly elections.

The BJP leader claimed the protesters were RJD-backed troublemakers. "The NDA government is coming back to power in Bihar. We will run bulldozers on their chest," Sinha declared after the incident. He further alleged booth capturing at certain locations, stating, "My polling agent was thrown out of the booth. People are not being allowed to vote."

Law enforcement officials contradicted these claims, with District Police Chief Ajay Kumar asserting that voting was proceeding peacefully. "We came here and found that voting is being held peacefully. If anyone were stopped from casting their votes, there would not be a queue," he explained. The officer also dismissed allegations about intimidation of BJP polling agents, offering protection if needed.

The police chief's statements angered Sinha, who called him a "coward" and "weakling." "They are not allowing the Deputy Chief Minister to enter. Shame on the administration," Sinha complained. The police officer later acknowledged the protests against Sinha's convoy and confirmed they were investigating the incident.

In addition to facing Congress candidate Amaresh Kumar, Sinha is also competing against Jan Suraaj Party's Suraj Kumar in this electoral contest.

The Election Commission has taken cognizance of the incident, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar directing Bihar's police chief to take immediate action. The Commission emphasized that no one would be permitted to take the law into their hands.

District Magistrate Mithilesh Mishra affirmed that candidates have the right to visit their constituencies while citizens may express grievances. "The administration is doing its job. If we get any complaints, we will investigate them. We are ensuring peace is restored. Actions will be taken depending on the situation," he stated.

Deputy Inspector General of Munger, Rakesh Kumar, visited the incident site and promised strict action against those responsible. "An investigation is currently underway. There are three areas under me: Munger, Lakhisarai, and Sheikhpura. Voting is going on peacefully in all three areas. There has been no disruption to voting at all," he confirmed.