In a dramatic turn of events, jailed Janata Dal (United) legislator Anant Kumar Singh is leading in the Mokama assembly constituency as the third round of vote counting begins. Early trends show the controversial strongman, popularly known as Chhote Sarkar, holding a narrow margin of 700 votes against his rival, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate Veena Devi.
The Unstoppable 'Bahubali' of Mokama
Anant Singh, a five-time former MLA from Mokama, is attempting a potential sixth victory despite being currently incarcerated. The 64-year-old politician was arrested on 2 November 2025 for his alleged involvement in the murder of Jan Suraaj Party supporter Dular Chand Yadav, who was killed in a clash on 30 October. Singh has denied the allegations, calling them a political conspiracy.
His political journey is marked by strategic party shifts and a formidable public image. He won Mokama in 2005 on a JD(U) ticket, a period marking Bihar's shift from the 'Jungle Raj' under Lalu Prasad Yadav. He retained the seat in 2010 (JD(U)), 2015 (as an Independent after quitting JD(U)), and 2020 (RJD, with a 52.99% vote share). After his disqualification following a conviction, his wife, Neelam Devi, won the 2022 bypoll for the RJD.
Singh's family has dominated the political landscape of Mokama for over two decades, with no outsider winning the seat since 2000. His public persona, characterized by his signature white attire, dark sunglasses, and antique buggy, is complemented by a loyal support base, as evidenced by posters during his jail stint that read, “Jail ka faatak tootega, hamara sher chhootega” (Prison gates will break, our lion will be released).
The Bhumihar Protector and the Legacy of Jungle Raj
Anant Singh's enduring influence is deeply rooted in his role as a protector of the Bhumihar community during a turbulent era in Bihar's history. The period of RJD rule between 1990 and 2005, often referred to as 'Jungle Raj,' was marked by lawlessness and caste wars.
For the Bhumihars, an upper-caste landowning community constituting 2-3% of Bihar's population, this era was perceived as a 'dark age' of targeted violence and political marginalization. In this vacuum of state authority, Anant Singh and his family rose to prominence as defenders in the violent Barh-Mokama belt, where Naxalite attacks and caste feuds were common.
This historical context explains the community's strong allegiance to the NDA and figures like Singh, who symbolize resistance and protection. This bond has proven resilient, allowing him to maintain political relevance despite numerous legal challenges.
A Long List of Criminal Cases
Anant Singh's political career is shadowed by a extensive list of legal troubles. His 2020 election affidavit revealed 52 criminal cases against him, including serious charges of murder, abduction, kidnapping, and violations of the Arms Act.
In a significant legal blow, he was convicted under the UAPA in 2022 for possessing illegal weapons and sentenced to 10 years in prison, which led to his disqualification as an MLA. His past is also linked to other serious accusations, including the 2018 murder and molestation case of Reshma Khatoon, and violent feuds with rivals like Surajbhan Singh.
His ability to navigate jail terms and political shifts has drawn criticism towards Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who is seen as an anti-crime reformer, for maintaining political ties with the jailed strongman.
As the vote count continues, all eyes are on Mokama to see if Anant Singh's early lead will translate into a historic sixth victory, cementing his family's two-decade-long political dominion.
