Synopsis
Controversy has erupted over a luxury ‘vanity van’ near Patna’s Gandhi Maidan where Prashant Kishor is fasting against BPSC question paper leak allegations. Kishor demanded an alternate washroom facility instead of the van. Authorities claim the protest is illegal and have served eviction notices.
A controversy arose on Saturday after a luxury ‘vanity van’ was seen parked near Patna‘s Gandhi Maidan, where Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor is currently on a fast-unto-death over allegations of a question paper leak in the BPSC exam. The vehicle, said to have many luxury features, was parked just a few hundred meters from the location of Kishor’s protest, which he started on Thursday evening.
Kishor responds to media questions about the vanity van
When asked by reporters about the presence of the van, Kishor responded, “I am on a fast here. If I go home to relieve myself, then journalists will ask questions whether I went to have food or take a nap… Some people said the vanity van is worth Rs 2 crore and the rent for the same is Rs 25 lakh per day.”
He continued, “I want to convey this through mediapersons… let this van be taken away and in return, give me Rs 25 lakh per day and provide an alternate space that can be used as a washroom.”
Kishor defends his fast and questions the focus on amenities
Kishor also questioned whether the issue of where he relieves himself was more important than the future of BPSC candidates. “Will you be able to question Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar about the amenities they enjoy?” Kishor asked.
The issue at hand: BPSC question paper leak
Kishor’s fast is related to the 70th Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) held on December 13, which has been marred by allegations of a question paper leak. Kishor has called for the exam to be canceled, demanding justice for the affected candidates.
Legal action against Kishor and his supporters
Meanwhile, an FIR has been filed against Kishor and his supporters by the district administration, claiming that the protest at the Gandhi Maidan was illegal. District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh stated, “In accordance with a Patna High Court order, no dharna can be allowed at a spot other than the designated place in Gardani Bagh.”
For almost three weeks, several candidates have been protesting at Gardani Bagh.
Singh added, “We will take appropriate action against Kishor and his supporters, who were served with a notice on Thursday to vacate the spot.”
Inputs from PTI
