Lucknow: In a surprise move, Congress fielded tainted former BSP minister Anis Ahmed Khan alias Phool Babu as the party candidate from Bisalpur Assembly seat in Pilibhit district.

The party changed its earlier announced candidate Dev Swarup Patel from the seat and yesterday decided on fielding Phool Babu from the seat, Congress sources here said.

To questions, they said that they are not aware of the developments and the decision has been taken at the top level. No formal announcement has also been made in this regard, they said.

Khan was sacked by Chief Minister Mayawati following reports of misuse of his MLA fund. He was also denied a ticket by Mayawati.

Khan was the minorities welfare minister. Polling on the seat is scheduled for March 3.

PTI