Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
Several aspirants in the BJP have expressed strong anger after many applications submitted for nominated member positions in the municipal corporation were rejected during scrutiny. Allegations have begun to surface that certain office-bearers and leaders, in collusion with the municipal administrative machinery, have worked against them.
There was intense competition within the BJP for the nominated member posts. A total of 170 names had been forwarded to the state committee. After review, the committee sent 15 names to the local core committee. However, some of these applicants were rejected during scrutiny. This has led to resentment, with many questioning how their applications could be rejected despite being submitted through the party.
During the municipal corporation elections, around 80 individuals had rebelled after being denied party tickets. Party leaders had assured them of nomination as co-opted members or positions on various government committees. As a result, many aspirants had lobbied leaders at the local level as well as in Delhi and Mumbai. Several calls were reportedly made from Delhi and Mumbai to local leaders on behalf of these aspirants, yet none of them have been given an opportunity. The BJP has 57 corporators, and accordingly, it is expected to receive five nominated member positions.
Kenekar’s son withdraws
Harshvardhan Sanjay Kenekar has withdrawn his application for the nominated member selection process even before scrutiny. In his statement, he said, “I am voluntarily withdrawing from this election process. I have no intention of contesting for the nominated member position.” He also submitted a written application to the civic administration on March 31, requesting that his application should not be considered during the scrutiny process. This was formally communicated to the municipal corporation’s election section.
Scrutiny conducted under supervision of Charity Commissioner
Party group leaders in the municipal corporation will propose five names during the general body meeting. There is no question of applications being scrutinised under any pressure. The municipal administration invited officers from the Charity Commissioner’s office to oversee the scrutiny process. There was no pressure from the BJP on the municipal machinery, said BJP city president Kishor Shitole.