Backed by Akalis, Doda files papers

Our Correspondent

Abohar, January 13

Backed by local Akali leaders, liquor baron and Bhim Tank murder accused Shiv Lal Doda today filed nomination papers as an Independent from Abohar constituency. Doda and his nephew Amit, co-accused in the case as conspirators, were brought amid tight security from the Amritsar central jail to the Abohar subdivisional complex. The court of Additional District and Sessions Judge had granted permission to Doda earlier this week to submit his nomination. Amit filed papers as the covering candidate.

Both appeared before Returning Officer-cum-SDM Jaspreet Singh. SAD circle president Ashok Ahuja was present inside the office with them.

Several SAD district and circle unit leaders took part in a procession taken out in Doda’s support.

In the 2012 elections, he had pushed BJP nominee Vijay Luxmi Bhadoo to the third spot, even as Congress candidate Sunil Jakhar won the seat. Many Akali leaders and senior BJP activists had supported Doda.