Bihar Election Row: VVPAT Slips Found in Samastipur, RJD Raises Questions, Election Commission Suspends ARO

Bihar: A large number of VVPAT slips were found scattered near KSR College in the Sarairanjan assembly area of Samastipur. Locals noticed the slips and informed others, leading to immediate discussion in the area. Photos and videos of the slips quickly spread across social media platforms. People started questioning how such important election-related slips could be found openly on the road. Doubts grew regarding the handling of election material. This created confusion and concern among common voters. The matter soon moved from the street to political debate.

Why did RJD raise questions?

The RJD openly questioned the situation and asked how these slips were allowed to reach a public area. The party posted on social media, wondering who brought the slips outside and for what purpose. They claimed that this cannot happen without someone’s approval or intention. RJD said that this event raises concerns about the fairness of the election process. They demanded a clear and detailed explanation from the Election Commission. The issue quickly turned into a political controversy. The opposition used it to challenge the system’s credibility.

What action did the Election Commission take?

Once the matter was reported, the Chief Election Commissioner took immediate action and suspended the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO). The Commission also directed the police to file an FIR against the concerned officer. It ordered the Samastipur District Magistrate to investigate the situation on the spot and provide a full report. The Commission stated that it would not allow negligence in handling election procedures. The quick action was meant to ensure public confidence. The Election Commission also clarified details regarding the slips. It assured that transparency of the voting process would not be affected.

What did the Commission clarify about the slips?

The Election Commission stated that the slips found on the road were from the mock poll and not from actual voting. A mock poll is carried out before real voting starts, to test the EVM and VVPAT machines. The Commission said that the slips should have been destroyed properly after the mock poll. Instead, they were mishandled and thrown away carelessly. This was termed administrative negligence, not electoral fraud. The Commission informed all candidates about this clarification. It emphasized that actual votes cast by citizens were safe and unaffected.

Who is conducting the investigation now?

Samastipur District Magistrate Roshan Kushwaha and SP Arvind Pratap Singh reached the location and began an investigation. They examined how many slips were involved and from which machine they were printed. Based on machine numbers and duty records, the responsible poll staff is being identified. The officers assured that action will follow against those found negligent. The investigation team is preparing a detailed report. This report will be sent directly to the Election Commission. The matter remains under close administrative watch.

Why is this important during elections?

The Sarairanjan assembly constituency voted in the first phase, which makes this incident more sensitive. People fear that any mistake may influence the perception of the election results. Even a small error can raise doubts among voters. Transparency and trust are key in any democratic process. That is why this incident gained large attention. Political parties also used it to strengthen their narrative. The situation became not just administrative, but also emotional for many voters.

Does this shake public trust?

Events like these can make people question whether their vote is handled securely. However, the Commission repeatedly clarified that the actual voting slips were untouched. Still, public trust depends on careful handling of every election step. This is why clear communication and strict action are necessary. The people are now waiting for the investigation report. The final findings will decide how the matter is understood. The outcome will influence how voters see the system in the future.