The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar has initiated a major disciplinary action, suspending former Union Minister R.K. Singh for a period of six years. The party cited ‘severe anti-party activities’ as the reason for this stringent measure, which was made public on Saturday, shortly after the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 concluded.
R.K. Singh, who previously served as Union Home Secretary and held the portfolio of Power Minister, has been a prominent critic of the NDA’s leadership and the state’s law and order infrastructure. His public statements included accusations of corruption and factionalism within the NDA, demanding accountability from leaders like Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary. Singh also made headlines by urging voters to shun candidates with criminal histories, even pointing fingers at NDA coalition partners. He further expressed dissatisfaction with the Election Commission’s oversight of electoral violence, specifically referencing events in Mokama.
This move is part of a broader post-election crackdown aimed at consolidating party discipline. In addition to R.K. Singh, the Bihar BJP also suspended MLC Ashok Kumar Agarwal and Katihar Mayor Usha Agarwal for similar ‘anti-party activities.’ A key factor in the Agarwals’ suspension appears to be Ashok Agarwal’s decision to allow his son, Saurav Agarwal, to contest as a VIP candidate from Katihar against explicit party instructions. Both leaders have been directed to provide a formal response to the accusations within seven days.
The suspension highlights the renewed focus on governance issues, particularly the state’s law and order. Singh’s vocal criticism gained traction following a fatal incident in Mokama during the election campaign, where a supporter of Jan Suraaj was killed. The aftermath saw administrative action with the suspension of two police officials, fueling debates about the state’s security and governance effectiveness.