NEW DELHI: Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor on Saturday reacted sharply to criticism over a luxury ‘vanity van’ parked near his protest site at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan. Kishor, who is on an indefinite hunger strike demanding justice for students impacted by the alleged Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam question paper leak, dismissed the issue as a distraction.
“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 washroom,” Kishor said, as reported by news agency PTI.
He defended the presence of the vehicle, stating it served as a practical necessity during his fast.
“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 remarked.
He further questioned whether similar scrutiny would be applied to facilities enjoyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
“Will you 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. His protest calls for the cancellation of the 70th Combined Competitive Examination held on December 13, following claims of widespread malpractice, including the sale of exam seats. “More than half the BPSC seats were sold,” he alleged, adding that the position of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) is being openly traded for Rs 1.5 crore.
The district administration has deemed Kishor’s protest illegal, citing a Patna high court directive that restricts demonstrations 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 vacated.
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 demands of the students are met. We suggested from our end that the CM should meet the students and together they should bring out a solution. If that happens then I have no problem stopping the fast,” he told news agency ANI.
