EC sources indicate repolling if affected candidates file complaint with evidence

Election officials attend a training session on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) ahead of the civic polls, in Mumbai. (Source: PTI Photo)

Amid demands by the Opposition to allow voters in wards where candidates have been declared elected unopposed to exercise the NOTA (None of the Above) option on polling day, the Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) has indicated that the possibility of re-conducting the entire electoral process in a ward cannot be ruled out if a complaint is received from a directly affected candidate, supported by evidence.

Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal on Monday demanded that even in constituencies where candidates are elected unopposed, voters should be allowed to exercise their right to vote through the NOTA option to uphold constitutional values.

“Today, the BJP and Mahayuti have developed a mindset where they want no opposition. To ensure ‘unopposed’ victories, the ruling parties are stooping to extreme levels, preventing opposition candidates from filing nominations, issuing threats, and deploying pressure tactics. This is being done with the blatant support of the police and administration, while the Election Commission remains a mute spectator,” Sapkal said.

Responding to these concerns, a senior SEC official said, “As per the provisions of the law, if the commission received a complaint from the directly affected party, that is the candidate who has withdrawn from the race, and it is backed by evidence, the Commission has the power to recall the entire poll process in that particular ward.”

The official clarified that the complaint must be submitted by a person who is directly affected, specifically a candidate who has withdrawn allegedly under pressure or threat and must be supported by evidence of coercion, force, or inducement.

“The reason why we have asked for a detailed report from the municipal commissioners and returning officers is that we need to get a clearer picture of unopposed elections. We cannot take action on mere allegations,” the officer added.

The ruling Mahayuti has claimed 68 unopposed victories across several municipal corporations in Maharashtra ahead of polling scheduled on January 15. The development has triggered sharp criticism from the Opposition, which has accused the ruling alliance of using force, money, and administrative machinery to compel Opposition candidates to withdraw. In response, the SEC has sought reports from the local administration on the unopposed elections.