ThePrint ThePrintAM: Who are the strongmen of Mokama & why do they have such heft in Bihar politics?
Nov 3, 2025
Dive into the turbulent world of Mokama's gangland strongmen and their grip on Bihar's politics. Explore the recent violent clashes and midnight arrests tied to local power dynamics. Discover how figures like Anand Singh and Suraj Bhahan Singh have navigated legal battles and political strategies to maintain their influence. The podcast uncovers their electoral tactics, including family involvement and party shifts, revealing the complexities of power in Mokama. Recent controversies, like a notable parole case, add a spicy twist to this gripping narrative.
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Strongmen Drive Mokama Politics
- Mokama's elections hinge on local strongmen more than party platforms or ideology.
- Candidates leverage muscle power and caste networks to secure votes despite criminal records.
Anand Singh's Political Rise
- Anand Singh built his political career from his elder brother Dilip Singh and later via his wife Neelam Devi.
- He has won Mokama repeatedly since his 2005 debut, even while facing criminal accusations and setbacks.
Suraj Bhahan Singh's Legal Troubles
- Suraj Bhahan Singh won Mokama in 2000 before contesting Lok Sabha in 2004 and later faced a life sentence for a 1992 murder.
- His wife Veena Devi became the electoral face while his appeals remained pending for years.