Allegations of false information in BJP candidate's affidavit prompt Election Commission of India to investigate discrepancies in assets.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken notice of allegations against Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a Union minister and BJP candidate from Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha seat. The Congress lodged a complaint citing differences in the assets declared by Chandrasekhar in his affidavit.
Following the complaint, the Election Commission has directed the CBDT to verify the details in Chandrasekhar's affidavit thoroughly. This move is in line with standard procedures to ensure transparency and accuracy in election affidavits.
Under Section 125 A of the Representation of the People Act 1951, any discrepancies or falsification in an affidavit is a serious offense. Penalties for concealing information can include imprisonment for up to six months, a fine, or both.
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Both the Congress and the Left Front have accused the IT minister of providing false information about his financial standing. They claim that Chandrasekhar's declared assets of 36 crore are significantly lower than his actual worth, estimated at around 8000 crore.
In his election affidavit, Chandrasekhar declared movable assets worth over 28 crore. This includes cash, bank deposits, investments in bonds, shares, and other financial instruments. His immovable assets, including property, are valued at approximately 14.4 crore.
The complaint alleges discrepancies in Chandrasekhar's affidavit, pointing out errors in the figures provided for shares, bonds, and debentures. There are claims of manipulation to show a lower asset value.
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