Union minister Lalan Singh has sparked controversy by urging Janata Dal (United) party workers to confine opposition leaders on polling day ahead of the Bihar assembly elections. In a video shared by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Singh is heard saying, "There are a few leaders. Don’t let them step out of their homes on polling day. Keep them packed inside." He further suggested that if opposition leaders create disturbances, they should be taken to vote and then sent home.

RJD spokesperson Priyanka Bharti criticized Singh's remarks, questioning the Election Commission's inaction. She asked, "Will you wake up from your slumber and verify the authenticity of this gentleman's video spouting strongman rhetoric, and take appropriate action?"

Singh's comments come as he campaigns for JD(U) candidate Anant Singh, who is currently in Beur Jail due to his involvement in a murder case linked to a supporter of rival candidate Dular Chand Yadav. Anant Singh was arrested during a police operation in rural Patna and is now in judicial custody.

Addressing supporters in Mokama, Singh stated, "We will not let the people of Mokama feel the absence of Anant Singh." He also condemned the language used by some political figures, suggesting it promotes unrest.

The Bihar assembly elections are set to take place in two phases on November 6 and 11, with results announced on November 14. In the previous 2020 assembly elections, the BJP won 74 out of 110 contested seats, while JD(U) secured 43 out of 115 seats. The political landscape remains tense as parties prepare for the upcoming polls.