The Congress has escalated its criticism of the Election Commission for rejecting Meenakshi Natarajan’s nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha election in Madhya Pradesh. Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar accused the Election Commission of bias towards the ruling BJP and questioned its impartiality.
Singhar expressed disappointment over the Election Commission’s handling of Natarajan’s nomination issue, emphasizing the Commission’s authority to intervene. The rejection of Natarajan’s papers on grounds of alleged non-disclosure of a court case in her affidavit has sparked controversy, with the Congress alleging political influence in the decision.
Following the rejection, Congress members protested outside Election Commission offices in Bhopal and various district headquarters in Madhya Pradesh. They accused the authorities of succumbing to political pressure and staged demonstrations demanding fair treatment from constitutional bodies.
The Congress has resorted to legal action to challenge the rejection, moving to the Supreme Court after approaching the Election Commission. Singhar highlighted concerns over the Election Commission’s adherence to rules and Supreme Court directives, emphasizing the broader implications on democratic processes and electoral fairness.
The BJP has refuted the allegations, asserting that the Returning Officer’s actions were in line with election regulations and procedures. The dispute has triggered a political clash in Madhya Pradesh, with the Congress framing it as a test of democratic institution independence pending the Supreme Court’s involvement.
