YouTuber and senior journalist Ajit Anjum has been booked for allegedly spreading misinformation and communal tensions through his coverage of the voter roll revision exercise in Bihar. A First Information Report (FIR) was lodged against him on 13 July 2025 at the Ballia police station in the Begusarai district.
According to the police complaint, Anjum is accused of unauthorized entry into a polling station, disrupting government work, and inciting communal discord during his reporting on the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The incident reportedly occurred on 12 July 2025, when Anjum and his team visited a polling booth in Ballia.
At the center of the controversy is Booth Level Officer Mohammad Ansarul Haq, who was in the process of uploading voter data during Anjum’s visit. Anjum allegedly questioned Haq specifically about Muslim voters and voter registration forms, which disrupted the official’s work for nearly an hour. Authorities claim this interference hampered the electoral revision process.
Based on these allegations, Anjum has been charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Representation of the People Act, 1951, for allegedly spreading communal tensions and obstructing public officials in the discharge of their duties.
Anjum’s YouTube series had been focusing on alleged irregularities in the voter roll revision process. His reports claimed to uncover incomplete forms, fake signatures, and administrative lapses. However, authorities argue that his approach and questions during the field visit escalated communal sensitivities and disrupted the integrity of the official exercise.
As a result, Ajit Anjum is facing serious consequences:
Legal Action: The FIR registered against him includes serious charges that could lead to legal proceedings under criminal law and electoral regulations.
Criminal Charges: If proven guilty, Anjum could face criminal penalties, including possible imprisonment or monetary fines, depending on the court’s verdict.
Damage to Reputation: The public nature of the case has already sparked widespread media attention and controversy, potentially harming Anjum’s reputation as a journalist and YouTube commentator.
Loss of Credibility: With government authorities questioning his methods and intent, there is a risk that Anjum may lose credibility among his audience and within journalistic circles.
Harassment Allegations: Anjum has claimed that the FIR is politically motivated and an attempt to intimidate him. He fears ongoing harassment or pressure that could hinder his reporting on sensitive issues.
This controversy underscores the thin line journalists must walk between investigative reporting and responsible journalism. While Anjum aimed to highlight issues within the electoral system, the methods and tone of his reporting have led to unintended consequences, including communal tension and legal challenges.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for journalists to verify facts, respect institutional processes, and assess the broader societal impact of their reporting—especially in a diverse and sensitive democratic environment like India.
