Anant Singh named in FIR over Gopalganj viral video

Patna: Police have registered an FIR against Mokama JD(U) MLA and strongman Anant Singh after his supporters allegedly brandished weapons and an obscene dance was performed during a ‘Janeu’ ceremony he attended in Mirganj police station area of Gopalganj district three days ago.

The ‘Janeu’ ceremony was held at the house of one Guddu Rai in Semraon village under Mirganj police station area, on May 2 and 3.

Videos from the event, showing weapons being brandished and obscene dance being performed, were circulated on social media. Singh was seen clapping during the dance.

On Gopalganj SP Vinay Tiwari’s instructions, Hathua SDPO verified the video. Police identified several persons displaying illegal, prohibited as well as licensed weapons and participating in the dance while also recording it.

Following verification, a case was registered against nine named and several unidentified accused at the Mirganj police station on May 4. Those named in the FIR included organiser Guddu Rai, Utsav Rai, Priyanshu Kumar, Tishu Rai, Saurav Kumar Rai, Vishal Rai, Sunil Yadav, Anant Singh and Gunjan Singh, police said.

The display of licensed and prohibited weapons during the function created panic in the area. Charges of obscene dance and disturbing public peace have also been filed. “Investigation is underway based on the viral video,” Gopalganj SP said.

Responding to the filing of the case, Singh, while talking to reporters, said he did not violate any law or do anything wrong. “When I reached there, someone was dancing with a rifle. I have nothing to do with that. I have not broken any law,” he said.

He added that if there are rules about his movement, the local SP should issue a clear order. “If the SP directs me not to go, I will not go,” he said.