A delegation from the Indian National Congress met with the Election Commission of India on Tuesday, strongly protesting the rejection of Meenakshi Natarajan's nomination papers for the upcoming by-election. The Congress leaders termed the decision 'blatantly unlawful' and urged the EC to intervene.
Congress Leaders Present Case
The delegation, which included senior party leaders, submitted a memorandum to the Chief Election Commissioner, detailing what they described as procedural irregularities. They argued that the returning officer's decision to reject Natarajan's nomination was based on flimsy grounds and violated established norms.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, a Congress spokesperson said, 'The rejection is arbitrary and against the principles of natural justice. We have full faith in the Election Commission to rectify this grave error.'
Background of the Issue
Meenakshi Natarajan, a prominent Congress leader, had filed her nomination for the by-election scheduled next month. However, the returning officer rejected her papers, citing an alleged discrepancy in the affidavit. The Congress party claims that the discrepancy was minor and had no bearing on the validity of the nomination.
- The Congress delegation demanded a re-examination of the nomination papers.
- They also called for strict action against the returning officer if the rejection is found to be malafide.
- The party has threatened to approach the court if the EC does not act.
EC's Response
The Election Commission assured the delegation that it would look into the matter and take appropriate action as per law. However, no immediate decision was announced. The EC is expected to review the case and issue a statement in the coming days.
Political analysts say this incident could become a flashpoint in the already tense political atmosphere ahead of the by-elections. The Congress party is banking on Natarajan's candidacy to consolidate its support base in the constituency.
The delegation included senior leaders such as [names], who emphasized that the party would not let the 'unfair rejection' go unchallenged. They also accused the ruling party of using state machinery to suppress opposition candidates.
