Patna: Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor, who is on an ‘aamaran anshan’ (fast-unto-death) protesting against the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC), has responded to the controversy surrounding the luxury vanity van parked near Gandhi Maidan, where he is staging his protest.
Reports surfaced claiming that the vanity van, equipped with several luxury facilities, was worth ₹2 crore, with a rental cost of ₹25 lakh per day. However, Kishor refuted these allegations and clarified its purpose.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Kishor stated, “I am on a fast here. If I go home to relieve myself, journalists will ask whether I went to have food or take a nap… I want to convey this through the media: let this van be taken away and in return, give me ₹25 lakh per day and provide an alternate space that can be used as a washroom.”
Kishor further emphasized that the vehicle was simply being used for personal necessities, including relieving himself, given the prolonged nature of his protest. He also questioned whether the media would question high-profile leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar about their amenities.
“Will you be able to question Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar about the amenities they enjoy?” he asked, defending his use of the vehicle amid the fast.
The vanity van, parked a few hundred meters from the protest site at the historic Gandhi Maidan, has drawn attention, with critics accusing Kishor of being extravagant during a protest. However, the veteran political strategist has made it clear that the van’s presence was purely for personal convenience and not for any form of indulgence.
