PATNA, Apr 29: The Election Commission today ordered transfer of former MLA and jailed gangster Vijay Kumar Shukla alias Munna Shukla from Muzaffarpur Central Jail to Bhagalpur Central Jail for allegedly canvassing for his wife.
The EC’s decision came after he was shown on a news channel talking on a mobile phone, apparently canvassing for his wife Annu Shukla, while being produced in Muzaffarpur court on April 22. Annu is contesting as an Independent from Vaishali Lok Sabha constituency.
“The EC took notice of the matter and has given orders to transfer him to Bhagalpur Central Jail. He was talking on a mobile phone while he was being produced in a court. It has also ordered the suspension of the escort party members,” said Additional Chief Electoral Officer R Lakshmanan.
Allegedly involved in dozens of cases of murder and extortion, Shukla had become an MLA from Lalganj Assembly constituency in Vaishali district. He has been convicted and punished with life sentence in the murder of former Bihar minister Brij Bihari Prasad.
Muzaffarpur SSP RK Mishra said a sub-inspector and two constables, who were part of the escort party, have been suspended, while explanation has been sought from three Special Auxiliary Police (SAP) men as to why their work contract should not be terminated.
“Shukla was talking on a mobile phone provided by his supporters at the court campus. This was a direct violation of Bihar Jail Manual and we have lodged an FIR in this connection. We have got the orders to transfer him,” said Mishra. (PTI)