Bihar’s Assembly elections have entered a tense phase ahead of the second round of polling, held on November 11, 2025, as a major political controversy erupted involving BJP MLA and candidate Lalbabu Prasad Gupta from the Chiraiya constituency.
A video that went viral on social media showed Gupta allegedly handing out cash to voters, sparking uproar and leading to an FIR being registered against him for violating the Model Code of Conduct.
This episode highlights the persistent challenges that electoral democracy faces in ensuring free and fair polls, especially in politically charged regions like Bihar.
Viral Video Provokes Political Outcry
Just hours before the second phase of polling, a purported video surfaced showing BJP’s Lalbabu Prasad Gupta distributing money to villagers, including a woman who is clearly visible receiving cash.
The clip was widely shared on various social media platforms, prompting widespread condemnation from opposition parties who accused Gupta of attempting to influence voters through monetary inducements.
The video shows Gupta seated in the midst of locals, holding notes that appear to be handed out as part of a cash-for-votes scheme. Motihari Superintendent of Police Swarn Prabhat confirmed that, based on the magistrate’s report verifying the video, an FIR was filed at the Patahi police station, and a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain all involved individuals and the extent of any wrongdoing.
Opposition parties have demanded the candidate’s disqualification, arguing that such actions undermine the democratic process and violate strict electoral norms.
Election Commission Steps Up Enforcement
The Bihar elections have been marked by intense scrutiny from the Election Commission, which has deployed additional surveillance teams to monitor poll-related activities and enforce the Model Code of Conduct rigorously.
Despite these efforts, the appearance of viral videos like this demonstrates ongoing attempts by some candidates and their supporters to sway voters improperly.
The SP described the incident as a “prima facie breach” of the Model Code, reiterating that all political parties must adhere to electoral guidelines and that violations will be punished severely.
The political environment is further complicated by simultaneous reports, such as discarded VVPAT slips found in Siwan district, which have triggered independent investigations and allegations of procedural lapses.
Such incidents reflect the larger difficulties faced in conducting elections that are free from both overt and covert manipulations.
Party representatives, meanwhile, have responded with mixed reactions; while BJP insiders have questioned the video’s timing and alleged political motivations behind its circulation, opposition figures continue to demand firm action.
The Broader Context of Bihar’s Electoral Battle
The Chiraiya constituency, located in East Champaran near Motihari, is a crucial seat in Bihar’s political landscape, making the timing and content of this controversy especially significant. The assembly elections are taking place in two phases across the state, with the first phase witnessing a record 64.66% voter turnout – the highest in Bihar’s electoral history.
With approximately 37 million voters, including a large female electorate of 17.5 million, the second phase is expected to be equally competitive and pivotal for the state’s political direction.
The opposition, led by the Rashtriya Janata Dal and other parties, has seized on this controversy to question the fairness of the poll process and the BJP’s campaign ethics.
Additional political drama was seen with the arrest of an RJD supporter accused of similar cash distribution tactics in Motihari, highlighting the widespread nature of such electoral malpractices across party lines. These incidents have intensified calls for stricter enforcement and enhanced transparency.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective: Upholding Democratic Values
The emerging cash-for-votes scandal involving Lalbabu Prasad Gupta serves as a stark reminder of the fragility and challenges facing Indian democracy, particularly at the grassroots level.
The Logical Indian firmly believes that democratic processes must be safeguarded by ethical conduct from all stakeholders – politicians, voters, election officials, and civil society alike.
Elections should embody transparency, accountability, and respect for the collective will rather than being marred by unethical inducement or manipulation.
While enhanced surveillance and legal frameworks are critical, the ultimate responsibility lies with citizens to refuse the commodification of their vote and to demand higher standards from their representatives.
Constructive engagement, informed voting, and robust public discourse are keys to strengthening democratic institutions and processes.
