Patna: In an unusual political turn, Vikas Kumar alias Dikesh Singh, an inmate of Beur jail, filed his nomination papers for the Maner Assembly constituency as an independent candidate, while in police custody. Singh is accused in the high-profile drug dealer murder case, yet maintains that he has been falsely implicated for political reasons.
The scene outside the Danapur subdivision office was charged with energy as thousands of supporters gathered, chanting “Long Live Dikesh Singh!” Supporters, including men and women from Maner and Bihta, surrounded the area before being directed to disperse towards Sainik Chowk by Danapur ASP Shivam Dhakad.
Singh, who has previously contested elections from Maner, described himself as a representative of the Koeri, Kurmi, and underprivileged communities, asserting that the region has suffered from years of political neglect. He claimed that despite his brother Virendra Singh and former MLA Shrikant Nirala dominating the political landscape, the area has seen little progress.
“I have been arrested under a political conspiracy,” Singh said, vowing to continue his campaign from behind bars.
The nomination process saw the presence of several local leaders and social activists. Prominent supporters including Manilal Singh, Swaminath Paswan, Arun Paswan, and Ramsagar Singh were seen rallying behind him.
Political observers suggest that Singh’s entry into the fray may transform the Maner constituency into a triangular contest, potentially disrupting existing political equations.
