Thu Feb 06 03:45:19 UTC 2025: ## Bombay High Court Dismisses Election Petition Against Varsha Gaikwad

**Mumbai, February 6, 2025** – The Bombay High Court dismissed an election petition challenging the victory of Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad in the Mumbai North-Central constituency. The petition, filed by her rival Asif Ali Siddiquie, alleged electoral malpractices, including non-compliant campaign materials and vote buying.

Justice Sharmila U. Deshmukh dismissed the petition, citing the petitioner’s failure to provide sufficient evidence and specific details. The judge noted the petition relied heavily on unspecified sources and lacked the necessary material facts required under Section 83 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The court also highlighted the petitioner’s non-compliance with Section 81(3) due to the lack of provided mobile recordings.

Siddiquie’s allegations included non-compliant campaign handbills and distribution of money to voters. However, Gaikwad’s lawyer, Tejas Deshmukh, argued that the petition lacked substantial evidence, particularly regarding alleged bribery. The absence of video evidence supporting bribery claims was also criticized. While Siddiquie’s lawyer, Moin Chowdhari, claimed videos were withheld for witness safety, the court was unconvinced. Furthermore, Gaikwad’s lawyer pointed out inconsistencies in the petitioner’s claims.

The court ruled that the petition failed to establish a cause of action, leading to its dismissal under Order VII, Rule 11 of the Code of Civil Procedure. Gaikwad’s victory remains unchallenged.

Read More