Tensions are escalating in Jharkhand’s Giridih district as police lodged an FIR against prominent BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi for breaching election guidelines during urban local body polls. The case stems from an event on February 21, where Marandi visited a hotel near the bus stand at 8 PM, hours after campaigning officially ended at 5 PM.
Flying squad personnel, led by Mohammad Mansoor, alerted SDM Shrikant Vispute after noticing supporters assembled there. The official intervened, reminding everyone that public congregations are banned after the cutoff time. Marandi complied and exited without confrontation.
Defending his actions, the Dhanwar MLA told media persons that his visit was purely for a meal, and the presence of fans is commonplace for politicians. He emphasized that the SDM provided no direct instructions, prompting his self-departure.
The BJP has cried foul, with state chief Aditya Sahu labeling it a vendetta by the state machinery. In a strongly worded statement, Sahu alleged that the government, anticipating losses, is weaponizing police against rivals while ignoring threats to BJP nominees. He demanded the poll panel step in to enforce impartiality and secure peaceful polling statewide.
As inquiries proceed, this episode underscores the high stakes and scrutiny surrounding Jharkhand’s civic elections.