Putin’s Bihari MLA: Meet Abhay Kumar Singh Who Added an Indian Tadka to Russian Polls

In an unusual and intriguing political development, Abhay Kumar Singh, a former MLA from Bihar, has found himself at the centre of global attention for his unexpected role in the 2024 Russian presidential elections. Popularly dubbed “Putin’s Bihari MLA” on social media, Singh’s involvement added a surprising Indian flavour to Russia’s electoral landscape — and has now become a topic of curiosity across India.

From Bihar to Moscow: A Journey No One Expected

Abhay Kumar Singh, a former JD(U) MLA from Bihar’s Jamalpur constituency, has been living in Russia for several years. A businessman by profession, Singh developed strong political links in Moscow and eventually joined the “Rodina Party”, a nationalist faction allied with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In the run-up to the elections, Singh became one of the foreign observers invited to monitor the polling process — a rare honour for an Indian politician. His presence at various polling stations across Moscow and other regions drew significant attention.

It wasn’t long before Russian media and officials began referring to him as the “Indian lawmaker supporting Putin”, adding to the buzz online.

How He Became Part of Russian Politics

According to Singh, his participation stems from years of cultural and business exchanges in Russia. He has established close ties with several political leaders and diaspora groups, which eventually led to his involvement in the Rodina Party’s outreach initiatives.

During the elections, Singh reportedly visited multiple polling booths, met election officials, and interacted with voters. Videos showed him praising the “discipline, organisation, and transparency” of the Russian election machinery.

This unusual cross-border political connection immediately became viral back home.

Social Media Turns It Into a Meme Storm

Once Indian social media users discovered that a former Bihar MLA was taking part in Russian polling activities, the internet exploded with memes and jokes:

• “Bihar’s diplomacy is on another level.”

• “Putin bhai’s election managed by Jamalpur’s finest!”

• “India–Russia friendship just got a Bihari upgrade.”

Some users even joked that Abhay Singh might soon be appointed as India’s unofficial ambassador to Moscow.

But beyond the humour, many were genuinely curious: How does an Indian politician end up influencing Russian elections?

“India and Russia Have Deep People-to-People Connections” – Singh

Responding to the attention, Singh said:

• “India and Russia have been friends for decades. I am only strengthening cultural relations.”

• “My role was limited to observing the election — not political campaigning.”

• “I felt proud that Indians are respected so much in Russia.”

He added that several Indian students and businessmen in Russia also volunteered during election events.

Political Reactions in India

While the story has remained light-hearted, some political analysts have examined the developments seriously. They note that:

• India’s diaspora influence is rising globally.

• Indian politicians participating as observers in foreign elections is not entirely new but is still rare.

• Russia’s outreach to friendly nations is part of its long-term diplomatic strategy.

Meanwhile, leaders in Bihar expressed surprise but wished Singh well.

A senior local politician remarked:
“Abhay Singh has always been known for doing things differently. This is certainly a first for Bihar.”

A Story of Globalisation and Surprise Diplomacy

Abhay Kumar Singh’s role in Russian elections — however symbolic — highlights the unpredictable ways in which global politics and diaspora networks operate today.

From the lanes of Jamalpur to election halls in Moscow, his journey has become a fascinating blend of diplomacy, humour, and cross-cultural connection.

And as social media continues to celebrate “Putin’s Bihari MLA”, one thing is clear:
This is a story nobody saw coming — and one that adds a uniquely Indian tadka to international politics.