Patna: Controversial Bihar politician Anant Singh took his oath as a member of the state Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, arriving from Beur Jail in an ambulance due to health concerns. The oath-taking, conducted under tight security, marked Singh’s official assumption of office following his decisive victory from the Mokama constituency.
Anant Singh, who has been in judicial custody for three months in connection with the Dularchand Yadav murder case, took the oath without reading the document. Immediately afterward, he approached Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, touched his feet as a mark of respect, and sought his blessings. Reports noted that the Chief Minister asked about the tilak on Singh’s forehead before Singh returned to his seat, observed by fellow Assembly members.
Speaking briefly to reporters, Anant Singh explained that his health had delayed the oath-taking and emphasized that his release from jail depends entirely on the judiciary. “I will come out of jail only when the judge decides,” he said.
Civil Court Allows Singh’s Oath-Taking, Bail Still Pending
The Patna Civil Court had permitted Anant Singh to attend the ceremony, but strictly for the purpose of taking the oath. He has not yet been granted bail in the murder case and will return to Beur Jail immediately after the proceedings.
Security at the Assembly was extremely tight, with additional police personnel, CCTV surveillance, quick response teams, and escort vehicles deployed. Supporter gatherings were banned, and entry points were subjected to thorough security checks.
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Anant Singh oath was constitutionally required. Under Article 188 of the Indian Constitution, an MLA cannot participate in House proceedings without taking the oath, while Article 193 prescribes penalties for failing to do so. With the ceremony completed, Singh’s legislative membership is now official.
In the October elections, Singh won the Mokama seat with 91,416 votes, defeating RJD candidate Veena Devi, who received 63,210 votes, by a margin of 28,206 votes. Although he has formally assumed office, Singh remains in judicial custody pending the High Court’s hearing of his bail application.