A fresh political storm has hit Jharkhand with an FIR against opposition heavyweight Babulal Marandi, BJP MLA from Dhanwar and Leader of Opposition, over suspected Model Code of Conduct infringement in Giridih. The action follows a complaint from flying squad officer Mohammad Mansoor regarding a gathering at a hotel near Giridih bus stand on February 21 night.
Campaigning had ceased at 5 PM, yet Marandi arrived by 8 PM, attracting supporters. SDM Shrikant Vispute intervened on-site, prohibiting such assemblies after hours, leading Marandi to leave on his own accord.
The veteran politician countered claims by explaining to journalists that he was there for dinner only, with supporter turnout being a routine occurrence. No explicit orders were given by officials, he added.
Reacting sharply, BJP’s Aditya Sahu termed the police move a desperate ploy by the government to manipulate urban body elections. In his release, Sahu pointed to threats faced by party candidates and administrative bias, pressing the Election Commission for statewide measures to ensure transparent, threat-free voting.
Police investigations are in progress, amplifying concerns over the integrity of Jharkhand’s local polls.