The BJP has won its first seat in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections after Congress candidate Nilesh Kumbhani was disqualified and eight others withdrew from the race. The Congress has accused the Election Commission of unfairly rejecting Kumbhani's nomination papers, which were signed by multiple relatives and associates. This incident raises questions about the role and rules of "proposers" in the nomination process, and highlights the importance of careful scrutiny by the Returning Officer.
BJP Secures Its First Lok Sabha Victory Amid Controversy
Background:
In the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC) were locked in a fierce electoral battle in the Surat constituency. The Congress candidate, Nilesh Kumbhani, was initially seen as a frontrunner due to his strong local support.
Disqualification and Withdrawals:
However, the Election Commission of India (ECI) disqualified Kumbhani's nomination papers on the grounds that they were signed by multiple relatives and associates, which is a violation of electoral rules. Subsequently, eight other candidates also withdrew from the race, leaving only the BJP candidate, Darshana Jardosh, in the fray.
Accusations of Bias:
The Congress has strongly protested the ECI's decision to disqualify Kumbhani, accusing the commission of bias and unfairness. The party claims that the signatures on the nomination papers were valid and that the ECI's action was politically motivated to favor the BJP.
Questions Raised:
The incident has raised questions about the role and rules of "proposers" in the nomination process. The Representation of the People Act (RPA) requires candidates to submit nomination papers signed by at least ten electors as proposers. Critics argue that the disqualification of Kumbhani shows a lack of clarity in the RPA regarding who can serve as a proposer.
Importance of Scrutiny:
The incident also highlights the importance of careful scrutiny by the Returning Officer (RO). The RO has the responsibility to examine the nomination papers and ensure that they comply with all electoral laws. By disqualifying Kumbhani's nomination, the Surat RO may have prevented a potentially ineligible candidate from contesting the election.
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