Tejashwi slams state govt over Bhojpur encounter

Patna: Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav on Friday alleged that Bharat Bhushan Tiwari was killed in a “fake encounter” at Shahpur in Bhojpur and demanded an apology from CM Samrat Choudhary. He said the govt could not talk of a fair probe while FIRs were being lodged against Tiwari’s parents and villagers.Speaking at the RJD state office at Karpoori Auditorium, Tejashwi claimed several such encounters had taken place earlier “on caste lines” and that justice in similar cases remained elusive.He also alleged that the controversy was being used to divert attention from the Rishu Shri tender mafia case, which he claimed involved corruption worth Rs 20,000–25,000 crore and “influential people”. Issues such as security, housing and encounters were, he said, being highlighted to shield those involved.Targeting the govt on law and order, he alleged that criminals and the liquor mafia were operating with official patronage. Extending his wishes to NEET candidates, Tejashwi said the Army was being deployed for the exam but those behind paper leaks were being protected. He also flagged inadequate transport facilities for candidates.He criticised demolition drives against the poor amid extreme heat, rising fuel and LPG prices, and demanded a CBI probe into the coaching-related issue. RJD leaders Mangni Lal Mandal, Bhola Yadav and others were present.