NCP SP Nominee Bapusaheb Pathare Challenges Independent Candidate Over Alleged Disclosure Anomalies

Bapusaheb Tukaram Pathare, the NCP SP candidate from Vadgaon Sheri in Pune, has raised concerns about an Independent candidate with a similar name. He claims that this candidate has not fully disclosed required information and seeks their disqualification. Pathare is contesting against MLA Sunil Tingre of Ajit Pawar's NCP for the elections on 20 November.

An individual named Bapu Baban Pathare, residing in Ahilyanagar district, has entered the race as an Independent. Bapusaheb Pathare approached election authorities, pointing out discrepancies in Bapu Baban Pathare's affidavit and requesting its rejection. Despite these claims, officials have permitted the candidate to continue in the election.

Allegations of Incomplete Disclosures

Surendra Pathare, son of the NCP SP candidate, stated, "A dummy candidate with my father's name, Bapusaheb Pathare, filed his nomination at the last moment on Monday. As per the rules, candidates' affidavits should be displayed publicly, but Bapu Baban Pathare's affidavit was not on display." He added that upon reviewing the affidavit, they noticed an undisclosed loan and bank account details.

According to election rules, candidates must fully disclose their assets in affidavits. Surendra Pathare mentioned that they objected to these omissions and lodged a formal complaint. A poll official confirmed that 24 candidates have submitted nominations for the Vadgaon Sheri constituency.

Official Response to Complaints

A complaint was lodged against Bapu Baban Pathare for not revealing one of his loans in his affidavit. The official stated they sought clarification from him. Bapu explained he is paying EMIs on the loan and does not consider it a loan per se. The official noted that minor errors in affidavits should not result in disqualification, so his candidacy was allowed.

Surendra Pathare expressed intentions to escalate the matter to higher authorities to advocate for cancelling Bapu Baban Pathare's nomination. Meanwhile, in Pune's Parvati constituency, where NCP SP leader Ashwini Nitin Kadam is running against BJP MLA Madhuri Misal, two more Independents with similar names have filed nominations.

Similar Name Confusion in Parvati Constituency

Among these candidates is one named Ashwini Nitin Kadam, identical to the NCP SP nominee's name. Another candidate is Ashwini Vijay Kadam. This situation adds complexity to the election process due to potential voter confusion over similar names.

The ongoing issues highlight challenges faced by candidates with similar names during elections. Ensuring transparency and accuracy in disclosures remains crucial for fair electoral processes. The outcome of these disputes may impact future guidelines on candidate nominations and disclosures.