VP elections give Shahabuddin chance to breathe in open air

New Delhi, Aug 10 (UNI) Incarcerated RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin, who came here on custody parole to cast his vote in the 13th Vice Presidential election today, made the most of his moments of freedom and hospitality of fellow MPs in the Central Hall of Parliament.

Shahabuddin, who was brought from Siwan Jail by train here this morning, relished and basked in the company of party leader Lalu Prasad and other RJD MPs in the Central Hall. He cast his vote around 1500 hrs.

Earlier, on arriving at New Delhi Railway Station, the controversial MP reportedly demanded that he be taken to Bihar Niwas as he wanted to take a bath. However, police personnel accompanying him said if he wanted to bathe, they would rather take him to Tihar Jail.

After a heated exchange of words on the issue, the MP finally decided to come to the Parliament House straight where he seemingly enjoyed every moment of his ''well-earned freedom''.

Shahabduddin is the second MP to have come from jail to cast a vote in the Vice-Presidential election.

Earlier, another party MP Pappu Yadav came on a wheelchair from Tihar Jail to exercise his franchise.

However, he had to immediately return behind bars.

UNI