Babulal Marandi booked for violating Model Code of Conduct in Giridih

An FIR has been registered against Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi at Nagar police station in Giridih for alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the silence period ahead of municipal polling.

The complaint was filed by the Flying Squad Team (FST). Confirming the development, the station in-charge, Gyan Ranjan, said the case relates to an alleged gathering at a hotel after campaigning ended at 5 pm on 21 February.

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According to administrative sources, Marandi reached a hotel near the Giridih bus stand around 8 pm, where several supporters were present in a hall. Officials suspected that a meeting was in progress despite restrictions on public assemblies during the 48-hour silence period. Sadar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shrikant Vispute visited the spot and reportedly advised that large gatherings were not permitted a day before polling. Marandi left the hotel soon after.

Speaking to reporters outside the hotel, Marandi denied any violation. He said he had gone there for dinner and that supporters often gather wherever he visits. “The SDM did not say anything directly to me. I left on my own,” he said, adding that although he is not a voter in the Giridih Municipal Corporation area, he owns a house in the town.

Earlier, the district unit of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha had questioned his presence in the city during the silence period, arguing that leaders who are not voters in the municipal area should avoid activities that may influence the electorate.

The controversy intensified after state BJP president and MP Aditya Sahu accused the state government of misusing the administration to target opposition leaders. The Bharatiya Janata Party leader alleged that while an FIR was filed against Marandi, threats faced by BJP-backed candidates in other parts of the state were not being adequately addressed.