Congress protests as Surat leader reportedly eyes BJP.
Congress workers in Surat staged a demonstration outside the residence of local leader Nilesh Kumbhani, who remains untraceable amid rumours of joining ruling BJP. Media reports suggest Kumbhani, whose nomination as the opposition candidate was rejected over signature issues, may switch sides to the saffron party.
Protesters carried placards describing him as “Janata ka cheddar” as suspense looms over his political affiliations a day after the BJP won the Lok Sabha seat unopposed.
The uncontested win comes after all rival nominees withdrew. The Gujarat BJP chief congratulated candidate Mukesh Dalal on receiving the seat.
However, Congress has petitioned the Election Commission, alleging the ruling party arm-twisted the process through coercion.
A party functionary said Kumbhani’s nomination proposed by four individuals was challenged after they denied signing. His rejection followed alleged coercion.
The EC has been urged to restart polling to deter undue influence. The chronology of events indicates questions about Kumbhani’s missing, with proposers retracting support subsequently.
As murmurs swell around a potential defection, aggrieved Congress members hit out at the notable absence of their chosen candidate at a crucial juncture.
The poll body now faces calls for intervening to address transparency concerns surrounding the unparalleled win in the Sangh Parivar stronghold.
