Post Rahul’s disqualification, his namesake from Wayanad faces similar action for failing to comply EC norms

New Delhi (India), March 31, 2023: A person with the name “Rahul Gandhi K.E. S/o. Valsamma” has been disqualified by the Election Commission for failing to lodge an account of election expenses for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The individual had contested as an independent candidate from the Wayanad seat in Kerala, where Congress leader Rahul Gandhi won by over 7 lakh votes. It is common for named independent candidates to contest against established leaders, but all candidates must fulfill mandatory requirements under EC rules and the Representation of the People Act.

The Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi, was also disqualified last week for a separate reason: his conviction and sentencing in a criminal defamation case. On March 29, the poll panel released an updated list of persons disqualified under Section 10A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

As per Section 10A, if the Election Commission finds that an individual has failed to lodge an account of election expenses within the required time and manner, without any reasonable justification, the poll panel shall declare that person disqualified.

Rahul Gandhi, K.E., S/o Valsamma, will be disqualified from contesting elections from September 13, 2021, until September 13, 2024. This decision serves as a reminder to all candidates and parties to abide by the rules and regulations set by the Election Commission. It is crucial to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and ensure fair and transparent elections.

The disqualification of an independent candidate for failing to lodge an account of election expenses highlights the importance of complying with the Election Commission’s regulations.

The disqualification of both Rahul Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, K.E., S/O. Valsamma serves as a reminder to all candidates and parties to abide by the rules and regulations set by the poll panel.