Patna: Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor on Saturday lodged a complaint with the state chief electoral officer (CEO), alleging irregularities in the conduct of Patna Police during the Bankipur assembly byelection held on July 30. He also sought an inquiry into the role of SSP Kartikeya K Sharma and other police officials during polling. He claimed the CEO assured him that the allegations would be examined.The byelection was necessitated after BJP national president Nitin Nabin vacated the seat following his election to the Rajya Sabha. Counting of votes is scheduled for Aug 3.Prashant, who is contesting against BJP candidate Neeraj Kumar Sinha and RJD nominee Rekha Gupta, led a party delegation to the CEO’s office and submitted a memorandum seeking an inquiry into the role of SSP Kartikeya K Sharma and other police officials during polling. He said documentary evidence supporting the allegations was also submitted.The Bankipur constituency recorded a voter turnout of 34.3%, the lowest since delimitation in 2010.Prashant alleged that several Jan Suraaj workers were detained without valid grounds during polling and subjected to intimidation and high-handed action by the police. He further claimed that the actions were carried out under the directions of the SSP.According to him, the CEO acknowledged receipt of the complaint and assured that the matter would be looked into.
