HC Finds No Evidence of Votes Cast in Dead People’s Names in Dhule LS Seat

Speedy Summary

• The Bombay High Court’s Aurangabad bench dismissed BJP leader Subhash Bhamre’s election petition against Congress MP Shobha Bachchav’s victory in the Dhule lok Sabha seat during the 2024 polls.
• Bhamre alleged irregularities, including votes cast in the name of dead voters and multiple votes by single individuals across booths, that supposedly favored Bachchav.
• Justice Arun Pednekar ruled on June 13 that no evidence was presented to substantiate these claims.
• The court stated having names of deceased individuals on an electoral roll does not imply votes were cast in their names unless supported by affidavits or objections from polling agents.
• the margin of victory for Bachchav was over 3,800 votes; she polled more than 5.83 lakh votes compared to Bhamre’s over 5.80 lakh.
• The court reiterated provisions under India’s Conduct of Elections Rules (1961) requiring specific and unambiguous pleadings in election petitions.

!No material to indicate votes cast in name of dead people

Indian Opinion Analysis

the Bombay High Court’s judgment underscores a key principle: allegations regarding electoral fraud must be backed by concrete evidence, not vague assumptions or incomplete pleadings. This ruling demonstrates strict adherence to safeguards built into India’s electoral process under established laws like the Conduct of Elections Rules (1961). By dismissing unsubstantial claims related to voting irregularities, the judgment reinforces trust in institutional mechanisms designed for fair elections.

For India, ensuring credible elections is paramount as any erosion of public faith risks undermining democratic foundations.While challenges related to outdated voter rolls must continue being addressed proactively by authorities like the Election Commission, this case highlights how legal scrutiny can safeguard against unfounded accusations tarnishing political contests’ legitimacy.

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