Ruling BJP changes candidate in C'garh

Raipur, Oct 27 (UNI) The ruling BJP today changed its candidate from Dondi Lohara assembly seat in Durg district of Chhattisgarh.

The party described Mr P R Naik's reluctance and his resignation from government service not being accepted as reason behind changing the candidate.

However, political observers said, the party was tremendous pressure following media reports about corruption to the tune of crores of rupees involving Mr Naik.

Mr Naik had been found guilty of distributing fake loans in the matter of Indira cooperative bank going bankrupt. He was provided ticket despite this and he had resigned from his job to contest polls.

However, media laid hands on the report that had found him guilty. Since then, he was constantly in news.

Party sources said Mr Naik was persuaded to not contest polls. He was promised his resignation would not be accepted.

Meanwhile, the BJP provided ticket to Ms Neelima Singh Tekam, a relative of the outgoing legislator from the seat.

UNI AS-PS 1732