Allahabad High Court Authorises Bypolls In Milkipur After Election Petition Withdrawal

The Allahabad High Court has approved the withdrawal of two petitions contesting Samajwadi Party leader Awadhesh Prasad's election from the Milkipur assembly seat. This decision, made on November 25, allows for bypolls to proceed after Prasad vacated the seat upon his election to the Lok Sabha from Faizabad (Ayodhya) in 2024.

Previously, BJP MLA Baba Gorakhnath and another petitioner had filed cases against Prasad's election, citing discrepancies. They claimed that Prasad's affidavit was notarized by an unlicensed individual. However, both petitioners have now sought permission to retract their challenges.

Election Petition Withdrawal

The court's approval to dismiss these petitions clears the way for bypolls in Milkipur. The Election Commission had delayed these elections due to the pending legal challenges. With this resolution, voters can now elect a new representative for the constituency.

Awadhesh Prasad commented on the court's decision, emphasizing its significance. "After the Milkipur seat fell vacant, the writ filed by a BJP member against me became infructuous," he said. He also highlighted the constituency's importance due to its connection with Akhilesh Yadav and Ayodhya.

Background of Legal Dispute

The initial petition was filed after Awadhesh Prasad was declared victorious in the 2022 assembly polls. Baba Gorakhnath alleged that Prasad's documents were improperly notarized by someone whose license had expired six years prior. This prompted Gorakhnath to challenge the election results legally.

Despite these allegations, Baba Gorakhnath has decided to withdraw his case. He stated that their intention is to facilitate elections so that people can choose their MLA without further delay.

This development marks a significant step towards resolving electoral disputes in Milkipur. It underscores the importance of ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes while respecting legal protocols and decisions.