Hardeep Singh Puri Poised for Rajya Sabha Victory After Nomination Challenges

Bhopal: A Clear Path for Puri

Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri appears to be on track for a Rajya Sabha by-election victory in Madhya Pradesh, following the disqualification of two independent candidates, including one supported by the Congress party, on Tuesday. The official announcement of results is scheduled for November 5, coinciding with the final day for candidates to withdraw their nominations.

On the deadline for nomination scrutiny, the applications of Kante Sayanna and Congress-endorsed Rajkumar Lohani were dismissed. Both independent candidates, along with Congress leader Hemant Katare, raised objections against Puri's nomination, claiming that his affidavit in Form 26 was flawed and incomplete.

However, Returning Officer Umesh Sharma reviewed the objections and concluded that Puri had adhered to all stipulations of the Representation of the People Act. Sharma stated that no discrepancies were found in Puri's nomination documents.

In response, Katare and Congress MLA Atif Aqeel announced plans to challenge the decision in court, asserting, "This is an attack on Indian democracy. Despite significant errors, the nomination was not rejected."

The Rajya Sabha seat became vacant following the resignation of Union Minister L Murugan.