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July 15, 2025 – India –
Indian journalist and YouTuber Ajit Anjum has been booked by Bihar police for allegedly disrupting an official electoral roll revision process in Begusarai district. An FIR was lodged against him on July 14 after a confrontation at a government office that led to accusations of interference with the duties of public servants and violating the Model Code of Conduct.
According to police reports and statements from the Election Commission, Anjum visited a polling booth in Teghra, Begusarai, and recorded videos during an ongoing summary revision drive for the electoral rolls. Officials claim he obstructed the booth-level officers (BLOs) from performing their duties, questioned voters, and filmed proceedings without permission, thereby creating confusion and tension among the staff and local people.
The FIR, filed under sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Representation of the People Act, accuses Anjum of “disrupting official work” and “violating the sanctity” of the election process. The complaint states that his actions amounted to influencing the process of voter enrollment, which is tightly regulated under Indian election law.
Anjum, in response, denied the allegations and maintained that he was only reporting on alleged irregularities in the electoral roll revision. He argued that as a journalist, he had the right to document and expose discrepancies, particularly concerning voter exclusion. He also claimed that the FIR was an attempt to intimidate and silence journalists who question administrative actions and hold institutions accountable.
The incident has sparked criticism from press freedom advocates and civil society groups. Many view the FIR as part of a growing pattern of harassment against independent journalists in India, especially those using digital platforms to report on sensitive political issues. Calls have emerged for the Bihar government and the Election Commission of India to ensure that journalistic work is not criminalised under the pretext of law enforcement.
As of now, no arrest has been made. Anjum has not been detained, but the case remains open. The development adds to broader concerns about shrinking space for independent journalism in India.
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