Prashant Kishor Listed As Voter In Both Bihar And Bengal
Political strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor (PK) is facing scrutiny after his name was found simultaneously registered in the electoral rolls of both Bihar and West Bengal. The discovery prompted the Election Commission of India (EC) to issue a notice seeking clarification within three days.
Dual Registration Details
Documents reveal that in West Bengal, Kishor is listed at 121 Kalighat Road in Kolkata’s Bhabanipur constituency—the address of the Trinamool Congress headquarters—while in Bihar his name appears in the Kargahar Assembly segment of Rohtas district. Indian election law permits a person to be registered as a voter in only one state at a time.
Legal And Political Implications
The Representation of the People Act bars dual voter registration and duplication of entries in electoral rolls. The notice places Kishor on notice to respond, while the EC reviews whether the registrations were genuine, erroneous or indicative of electoral abuse. Political rivals claim the affair raises questions about electoral integrity and organisational ethics.
Next Steps
Kishor’s office has reportedly asked for the Bengal registration to be cancelled, but the EC has continued its inquiry. The matter assumes heightened importance as his party, the Jan Suraaj Party, is actively contesting the forthcoming Bihar elections. The outcome will test the EC’s ability to enforce rules against dual enrolment and may influence PK’s standing ahead of the campaign.
