A SETBACK FOR CHHOTE SARKAR’S POLITICS

A SETBACK FOR CHHOTE SARKAR’S POLITICS

25-OCT-ENG 8

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA----------------------------In a major political development in Bihar, Anant Singh has been expelled from the Janata Dal (United). The party has expelled Mokama MLA Anant Singh and his wife, Neelam Devi, for a period of six years, citing anti-party activities. State President Umesh Singh Kushwaha announced this decision on October 24.

The expulsion stems from Anant Singh’s recent statements and actions. On October 16, he claimed that while he was associated with Nitish Kumar, he had orchestrated the murders of nine individuals. As the controversy escalated, he offered a clarification, stating that nine of his associates had actually been killed during the tenure of the Lalu Yadav-led government. This statement caused a stir within political circles.

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi demanded action following this statement. When asked by the media how he would respond if action were taken against him, Anant Singh replied, "If action is taken, we shall see." This response further fueled the controversy.

On October 17, Anant Singh openly extended his support to Anuj Singh—a candidate from the 'Jan Suraaj' faction—for the Patna Graduates' Legislative Council constituency election. He remarked that the other candidates would lose their security deposits. The JD(U) had fielded Neeraj Kumar for the same seat. Campaigning against his own party's candidate did not sit well with the party leadership. Furthermore, Anant Singh’s persistent use of undignified remarks, abusive language, and a barrage of allegations against JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar also contributed to his expulsion. His disregard for party directives and the use of disrespectful language toward the top leadership paved the way for this disciplinary action.

The JD(U) office order goes beyond mere expulsion; it also includes a recommendation to the Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly to immediately terminate Anant Singh’s membership in the Assembly, in accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India. However, the final decision will be reached through the prescribed constitutional process.

This recommendation signifies that the party has not only shown him the door but has also challenged his status as a legislator. According to experts, the process for terminating membership under the anti-defection law is both lengthy and technical. Details regarding the relevant provisions are available on the Election Commission of India’s website.

In Bihar politics, Anant Kumar Singh is well-known—not merely for his electoral victories, but also for his influence in Mokama, his image as a ‘strongman’ (*bahubali*), his involvement in criminal cases, and his forthright, often blunt, statements. He is popularly known as ‘Chhote Sarkar’ (the ‘junior’ or ‘younger’ leader/boss), while his elder brother, Dilip Singh, was referred to as ‘Bade Sarkar’ (the ‘senior’ or ‘elder’ leader/boss).

Anant Singh’s political journey has been quite remarkable. He was elected as an MLA on a JD(U) ticket, subsequently demonstrated his political strength by winning an election as an independent candidate, and later entered the Legislative Assembly on an RJD ticket. Following this, he returned to the JD(U) fold. The electoral victory of his wife, Neelam Devi, further underscores the political influence wielded by his family.

Anant Singh’s remarks were not limited to Nitish Kumar alone. In 2026, while commenting on MP Pappu Yadav, he remarked, “Who is Pappu Yadav? I don’t keep track of stray dogs and cats.” In September 2026, he described JD(U) leader Neeraj Kumar as being “worse than a donkey.” When asked about Lalan Singh in October, he retorted, “There are 100 Lalan Singhs in Bihar—which one are you asking about?”

These statements have kept him consistently in the spotlight. His supporters appreciate his blunt and distinctively earthy style, while his critics take issue with his choice of language. This very contradiction has become a defining feature of his political persona.

Anant Singh is also quite popular on social media. His authentic Magahi dialect, terse replies, and unpredictable reactions make for perfect content for videos and reels. Whether it is responding to complex political questions in a single sentence, taking jibes at other leaders, or expressing himself in his own unique way, he always manages to stay in the conversation.

As soon as he makes a statement, video clips begin to circulate. His supporters portray him as a forthright leader, while his opponents use those same remarks against him. Consequently, his statements transcend mere political news, becoming fodder for both debate and entertainment on social media.

His expulsion from the JD(U) marks a significant political turning point for Anant Singh. It will be interesting to see what his next move will be. Will he seek a new political home, forge an independent political identity, or choose to remain silent for now? The answers to these questions will emerge in the coming days.

Another major question concerns his membership in the Legislative Assembly. The JD(U) has recommended to the Assembly Speaker that his membership be terminated, but any such decision must follow the prescribed constitutional process. Therefore, it would be premature to assume that his tenure as an MLA is effectively over.

One thing is certain: Anant Singh is not the type of leader to sit quietly. His statements, his style, and his political maneuvers have frequently made headlines. It remains to be seen in which direction ‘Chhote Sarkar’ will steer his politics now that he is no longer with the party. In the meantime, it is highly likely that his videos and reels will continue to be a subject of discussion on social media.