DHANBAD: A purported video of Dumri MLA Jairam Mahto allegedly using abusive language during a WhatsApp call with the officer-in-charge of Barwadda police station has gone viral on social media, triggering controversy in the district.According to police sources, the conversation was reportedly recorded by the station officer on another mobile phone before the recording surfaced on social media. The police are yet to officially confirm the authenticity of the viral audio-video.The incident reportedly followed a dispute between the MLA and a representative of a village head over an earlier matter. After the issue reached the police station, tension escalated when the MLA allegedly arrived there with supporters and questioned the police handling of the case.Police said a large crowd gathered at the station during the incident, with some people allegedly entering the premises and creating a disturbance.Based on the station officer’s complaint, an FIR has been registered against Mahto and nine others for allegedly obstructing government work and other offences.
