NEW DELHI: Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor on Saturday reacted sharply to criticism over a luxury ‘vanity van’ parked near his protest venue at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan. Kishor, who is on indefinite leave hunger strike demanding justice for the students affected by the alleged Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC), dismissed the issue as a distraction.
“Let them take this van and in return give me Rs 25 lakh per day and provide an alternative space that can be used as a toilet,” Kishor said, as reported by news agency PTI.
He defended the presence of the vehicle, stating that it was a practical necessity during his fast.
“Here I am fasting. If I go home to relieve myself, then journalists will ask me if I went to eat or take a nap… Some people said that the vanity van costs 2 million rupees and the rental of the same costs Rs 25 lakh per day,” he said.
He further questioned whether similar scrutiny would be applied to facilities enjoyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
“Will they be able to question Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar about the amenities they enjoy?” -Kishor questioned.
Kishor’s hunger strike has entered its third day amid a biting cold wave in Patna. Their protest calls for the cancellation of the 70th combined competitive exam held on December 13, following allegations of widespread negligence, including the sale of exam slots. “More than half of the BPSC seats have been sold,” he alleged, adding that the post of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) is being openly negotiated for Rs 1.5 crore.
The district administration has deemed Kishor’s protest illegal, citing a Patna high court directive restricting protests to Gardani Bagh. An FIR has been lodged against him and 150 of his supporters, with officials warning of further action if the protest site is not cleared.
Despite the mounting pressure, Kishor has vowed to continue his hunger strike until the Bihar government addresses the demands of the protesting students. “There is no question of withdrawing my fast, not until the students’ demands are met. We suggest from our side that the CM should meet the students and together they should find a solution. If that happens, then I have no problem stopping.” . fasting,” he told news agency ANI.