Why was comedian Shyam Rangeela's nomination rejected for Varanasi Lok Sabha seat? Know here
Once a staunch supporter of PM Modi, Shyam Rangeela announced his decision to contest against him, citing a shift in his perspective over the past decade
PTC Web Desk: The Election Commission's rejection of comedian Shyam Rangeela's affidavit, filed to contest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, has sparked controversy. Among the 55 candidates vying for the seat, Shyam Rangeela said 36 had their forms rejected, while 15, including PM Modi and Congress nominee Ajay Rai, passed scrutiny.
Shyam Rangeela alleged a series of hurdles in the nomination process, claiming he was unfairly impeded from submitting his papers on time. He accused the District Magistrate's office of singling him out and denying him assistance during filing.
In response, the District Magistrate cited deficiencies in Rangeela's affidavit and failure to comply with procedural formalities for the rejection. This explanation was provided through an official account.
Once a staunch supporter of PM Modi, Shyam Rangeela announced his decision to contest against him, citing a shift in his perspective over the past decade. He claimed that changes in circumstances prompted his move to stand as an Independent candidate against the Prime Minister.
The Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency has a significant political history. In 2014, PM Modi secured a resounding victory against AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, establishing Varanasi as a stronghold for the BJP. This victory, with a margin exceeding 3 lakh votes, solidified the constituency's significance in national politics.
Varanasi has been a battleground for both the BJP and the Congress over the years. Since 1957, the BJP has enjoyed substantial success, winning the seat seven times since 1991. On the other hand, the Congress has also wielded influence, securing victory six times during this period.
The Varanasi seat has never been won by the Samajwadi Party or the Bahujan Samaj Party, further emphasising the BJP and Congress' dominance in the region.
As the Lok Sabha elections approach, Varanasi once again emerges as a focal point of political contention. The rejection of Rangeela's nomination adds another layer of complexity to an already charged electoral landscape.