'Police powers misused': Prashant Kishor alleges voter intimidation in Bankipur bypoll
Prashant Kishor, founder of Jan Suraaj, has accused police officials of intimidating voters and misusing their power during the Bankipur by-election in Bihar. He has formally complained to the Election Commission, alleging that the state administration favored the BJP during the voting process.
Why it matters
Allegations of electoral malpractice in a major Indian state highlight ongoing concerns regarding the neutrality of law enforcement and the integrity of the democratic process.
NEW DELHI: Jan Suraaj founder and Bankipur bypoll candidate Prashant Kishor on Sunday alleged that police powers were misused during polling in the Bihar assembly by-election and claimed that voters were intimidated. He said his party has lodged complaints with the Election Commission and police observers.The allegations come after Kishor submitted a formal complaint to the Bihar Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), seeking an inquiry into the role of Patna SSP Kartikeya K Sharma and other police officials during polling in the Bankipur by-election.Speaking to reporters, Kishor said, "Police powers are being misused. The SSP tried to influence the polls and threaten voters. We have lodged complaints with the Election Commission and police observers."On Saturday, Kishor led a Jan Suraaj delegation to the CEO's office and submitted a memorandum alleging irregularities during polling.
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