Name Game in Vadgaon Sheri Elections: The Case of Bapusaheb Tukaram Pathare

Bapusaheb Tukaram Pathare, NCP (SP) candidate, has contested the candidacy of an Independent with a similar name in the Vadgaon Sheri election. Discrepancies in the Independent's affidavit concerning undisclosed loans have led to official complaints, yet election authorities have upheld the candidate's participation.

In a dramatic turn of events leading up to the Vadgaon Sheri assembly election in Pune, Bapusaheb Tukaram Pathare, the NCP (SP) candidate, has raised concerns over an Independent candidate with an identical name.

The controversy erupted when Pathare alleged discrepancies in the Independent candidate's affidavit, specifically regarding undisclosed loans. Election officials, however, decided to allow the candidacy, prompting Pathare to consider further action with higher authorities.

This isn't an isolated issue; similar instances are reported in other Pune constituencies, where candidates are contesting with names that closely mimic their competitors, raising questions about election fairness.

(With inputs from agencies.)