Cracking down on administrative lapses after fresh violence in Bihar’s Mokama, the Election Commission on Saturday ordered the transfer of Patna SP (Rural) Vikram Sihag and initiated disciplinary proceedings against three other senior officers, in what is being seen as the poll body’s toughest action ahead of the Assembly elections.

The shake-up follows the murder of Jan Suraaj Party supporter Dularchand Yadav, whose killing has triggered widespread tensions in Mokama, a politically volatile constituency near Patna.

Violence erupted on Friday when Yadav’s supporters allegedly pelted stones at the vehicle of Rashtriya Janata Dal candidate Veena Devi, prompting fears of further unrest just days before polling.

In a letter sent to the Bihar Chief Electoral Officer, the commission directed

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