On October 24, the Janata Dal (United) expelled Anant Kumar Singh, a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Mokama, along with his wife Neelam Devi, for a period of six years. This decision, announced by state president Umesh Singh Kushwaha, cited Singh’s alleged defiance of party directives, use of inappropriate language towards senior leaders, and support for a rival candidate during the recent Bihar legislative council elections.

The JD(U) has also urged the legislative assembly speaker, Prem Kumar, to initiate proceedings to disqualify Singh under the anti-defection laws outlined in the 10th Schedule of the Constitution. Singh’s expulsion represents a significant shift for a leader who has spent two decades building local influence and political power.

This action poses a challenge to the JD(U)’s ability to enforce discipline, particularly against someone whose political strength is deeply rooted in a local network. Singh has long been known as ‘Chhote Sarkar’ in Mokama, a title reflecting his family’s political legacy.

Singh’s Political Journey and Influence

Anant Kumar Singh, born in Nadawan village, has navigated a complex political landscape characterised by caste loyalties and local patronage. He first entered the legislative assembly in 2005 on a JD(U) ticket, having already established a reputation as a strongman. His supporters view him as a protector, while critics point to his criminal history, which includes serious allegations.

In 2019, law enforcement discovered an AK-47 rifle and grenades at his ancestral home, leading to his booking under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Although he was sentenced to ten years in prison, the Patna High Court later acquitted him. During his incarceration, Neelam Devi won a by-election on a Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) ticket, indicating the family’s enduring electoral influence.

Singh made a notable return to the legislative assembly in 2025, securing 91,416 votes against RJD’s Veena Devi, who garnered 63,210 votes. This comeback reaffirmed the notion that Singh’s personal following could transcend party affiliations and periods of imprisonment.

Rivalry and Consequences of Expulsion

The conflict leading to Singh’s expulsion had been brewing for years, particularly with Neeraj Kumar, a sitting JD(U) MLC from the Patna Graduates’ constituency. Their rivalry began in 2015 when Singh, running as an Independent, defeated Kumar, the official JD(U) nominee. Despite both being part of the same party, their competition persisted.

Recently, Singh openly supported Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Singh over Kumar, leading to tensions within the party. On October 1, he participated in Anuj’s nomination filing and later led a large roadshow in Mokama, which reportedly violated the model code of conduct. Singh’s actions posed a direct challenge to JD(U) leadership, as he claimed to have significantly contributed to the party’s electoral success.

On polling day, clashes occurred between supporters of the rival factions in Mokama. Singh’s public defiance continued, prompting JD(U) leaders to meet and ultimately decide on his expulsion. The timing of this decision, made after the elections, indicates a strategic move by the JD(U) to maintain discipline without disrupting the electoral process.

Future Implications for Singh and JD(U)

Singh’s expulsion does not immediately jeopardise his assembly seat, as any disqualification would require a separate decision by the assembly speaker. The party’s recommendation marks the beginning of a legal process, and Singh retains the option to challenge any disqualification in court.

He has hinted at the possibility of forming his own party, suggesting that the JD(U) may struggle in future elections. Singh’s local network, particularly among the Bhumihar community, remains a significant source of political strength.

While the JD(U) aims to assert authority through this expulsion, it carries risks, especially in a constituency where Singh has been a prominent mobiliser. The political landscape in Mokama may shift as opposition parties capitalise on this event, framing it as evidence of the ruling alliance’s selective accommodation of strongmen.

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