Patna: Poll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor on Saturday reacted to the controversy that erupted after his luxurious vanity was spotted near Patna’s Gandhi Maidan where he is on a fast-unto-death over Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) question paper leak allegations. Kihor launched his ‘aamaran anshan’ on Thursday evening.
"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," Kishor told reporters as reported by PTI.
The luxurious van grabbed the headlines after its images and videos went viral on social media, raising questions about the Jan Suraaj Party (JSP) chief's credibility. The vehicle is reportedly costing around Rs 25 lakh per day. According to reports, it has luxurious features like air conditioning and a sleeping area.
“I want to convey this through media persons... 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,” he added.
The Jan Suraaj Party chief also questioned the absence of Opposition leaders, including Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD's) Tejashwi Yadav and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. "It is not new for the opposition parties to criticise me...I have come here in support of the students. Anyone can come and lead, whether it is Rahul Gandhi or Tejashwi Yadav," he said as quoted by ANI.
The Jan Suraaj Party founder has demanded the cancellation of the 70th Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) held on December 13, following allegations of a question paper leak.
An FIR has been slapped on Mr Kishor and his “150 supporters” by the district administration, which has asserted that the protest at the site was “illegal”.
Notably, the BPSC has announced a re-test for 12,000 affected candidates at one centre, but aspirants are demanding a complete reexamination.
(With inputs from agencies)
