Bihar Underworld: Tales of Power and Crime

Mohammad Shahabuddin was one of the most powerful and notorious strongmen in Bihar’s history.

Hailing from Siwan, Shahabuddin’s influence was so immense that nothing significant—be it business dealings, land transactions, or political advancements—happened in the region without his approval. He had a grip over the area that very few could challenge.

During his prime, Shahabuddin was a close confidant and trusted ally of Lalu Prasad Yadav. His loyalty earned him significant political backing, and he even served as a Member of Parliament, a testament to his political clout.

However, his larger-than-life persona came to an end in Delhi’s Deendayal Upadhyay Hospital, where he succumbed to COVID-19 complications.

Shahabuddin’s legacy remains a mix of power, controversy, and influence—a name that will not be forgotten in Bihar’s political history.

Rama Singh, a name that once echoed through Bihar’s Vaishali district, is considered one of the region’s most prominent strongmen. Known for his unshakable influence, he carved a unique space in the world of politics and power.

A seasoned politician, Rama Singh was elected multiple times as an MLA from the Mahnar constituency. His political prowess peaked in 2014 when, amidst the massive Modi wave, he pulled off a stunning victory by defeating RJD stalwart Raghuvansh Prasad Singh in the Lok Sabha elections—a feat that cemented his legacy in Bihar’s political history.

However, Rama Singh’s journey has been far from smooth. His name has been entangled in several high-profile cases, including allegations of kidnapping. Most recently, he served a prison sentence for his involvement in the abduction of a prominent businessman from Chhattisgarh, stepping back into the public eye after his release.

A figure surrounded by both controversy and charisma, Rama Singh remains an influential name in Bihar’s political and social landscape.

Anant Singh, famously known as ‘Chhote Sarkar’, is a name that once symbolized power and dominance in Bihar’s political and social circles. He is the younger brother of the late Dilip Singh, a well-known strongman of his time.

After Dilip Singh’s death, Anant Singh inherited his brother’s mantle and influence, quickly establishing himself as a formidable figure in Bihar. Over time, he entered politics and became the MLA from Mokama, a position he held with an iron grip.

Known for his proximity to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during his early political career, Anant Singh was considered a trusted ally and wielded significant influence within the JD(U). However, his rise to power was accompanied by numerous controversies.

The turning point came when he was convicted in the high-profile AK-47 case, where illegal arms, including an assault rifle, were recovered from his residence. The conviction not only led to his imprisonment but also resulted in him losing his position as an MLA, marking a significant blow to his political career.

Despite his fall from grace, Anant Singh’s name continues to echo in Bihar’s political corridors, symbolizing the blend of power, controversy, and influence that defines many of the state’s political strongmen.

Pappu Yadav: Bihar’s Controversial ‘Robin Hood’

Pappu Yadav, a name that gained prominence in the 1990s, is often referred to as Bihar’s “Robin Hood.” Hailing from Madhepura, his journey from a local leader to a national figure has been marked by a mix of public admiration, controversy, and drama.

Pappu Yadav first came into the limelight due to his fierce rivalry with Anand Mohan, another influential leader of the time. While Anand Mohan championed the cause of forward castes, Pappu Yadav became a voice for the backward classes, creating a sharp divide in Bihar’s political and social landscape.

There was a time when gang wars between the supporters of the two leaders were common, reflecting the deep-seated tensions between their ideologies and constituencies.

One of the most high-profile cases involving Pappu Yadav was the murder of CPI leader Ajit Sarkar, for which he was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, years later, the Supreme Court acquitted him, marking a dramatic turn in his legal battles.

Despite his controversies, Pappu Yadav continues to be a polarizing figure in Bihar politics—a leader loved by many for his populist approach and criticized by others for his tumultuous past. His life remains a blend of heroism and controversy, making him one of the most intriguing figures in Bihar’s political history.

Rajan Tiwari, once a trusted ally of Surajbhan Singh, was a powerful figure whose influence extended far beyond Bihar. With his business empire rooted in the railway and scrap industries, his reach spanned not just Bihar but also neighboring Uttar Pradesh and even Nepal.

Known for his strongman persona, Rajan Tiwari’s rise was marked by power, wealth, and connections. However, his fall began in 2005 when he was accused of kidnapping—a charge that ultimately landed him behind bars. He is currently serving time in Uttar Pradesh’s Farukhabad jail.

While Rajan’s political career came to an abrupt halt, the family’s legacy continues through his brother, Raju Tiwari. Raju is actively involved in politics and currently serves as the state president of Chirag Paswan’s party, LJP (Ram Vilas).

Rajan Tiwari’s story is a tale of influence, controversy, and legacy—a name that still echoes in the corridors of power across Bihar and beyond.

Sonu-Monu Gang: From Local Looters to Notorious Criminals

The Sonu-Monu gang has been active in the world of crime since 2009, starting as petty criminals targeting trains passing through Mokama and nearby areas. Initially known for robbery and loot on trains, the duo quickly expanded their reach, carving out their own territory of influence.

Over time, Sonu and Monu began consolidating power in their region, and their ambitions pushed them beyond Bihar. They reportedly established connections with the infamous Mukhtar Ansari gang in Uttar Pradesh, seeking greater support to expand their dominance.

It is said that Sonu-Monu approached Mukhtar Ansari’s gang to challenge Anant Singh’s control in Mokama and the surrounding areas. This rivalry escalated into a violent gang war, where over 100 rounds of gunfire were exchanged, marking one of the most intense clashes in recent history.

From their humble beginnings as train robbers to becoming key players in a larger criminal network, the Sonu-Monu gang’s journey reflects the dangerous dynamics of Bihar’s underworld—a world fueled by ambition, alliances, and violence.