Ludhiana, Sept. 30 -- Two days after a contractor at the Daresi Dussehra mela allegedly poured petrol on himself in a dramatic self-immolation bid, claiming that AAP MLA Ashok Parashar Pappi had been demanding Rs.10 lakh, the MLA has come forward to clarify his stance. The MLA claimed that the mela is being organised without proper permission of the district administration and police. He also alleged that the contractor was charging money from vendors for setting their makeshift shops around the ground.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, MLA Pappi said, "I have approached the deputy commissioner and police commissioner to ensure proper norms are followed. The festival should continue, but regulations cannot be ignored."

Addressin...