RJD backs independent candidate after setback

Sasaram: After the nomination of RJD candidate Shweta Suman was cancelled, the party extended support to an independent candidate, Ravi Shankar Paswan, who is the son of former MP Chhedi Paswan.Party’s national president Lalu Prasad announced this support on social media group.Out of 17 nomination papers, 5 were rejected by the returning officer on Wednesday, according to official sources. Shweta’s papers were rejected as she allegedly had submitted an improper caste certificate to claim benefits under the reserved category.The objection was raised by the BJP, alleging that Shweta, originally a resident of Uttar Pradesh, illegally obtained a caste certificate in Bihar to contest from the reserved Mohania assembly seat.

Acting on the complaint, the returning officer annulled her nomination.After the decision, Shweta was seen leaving the returning officer’s chamber in tears, alleging that the move was made under govt’s pressure.She said she would move Patna high court against the cancellation order.She further claimed that the nomination of Jan Suraaj candidate, Gita Pasi, who faced similar allegations, was accepted.