Overview
- Former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar won the Lower Parel Ward 199 seat even as a notice from the Election Commission seeks her response to affidavit-related allegations.
- Kirit Somaiya’s complaint accuses her of suppressing pending criminal cases, including a COVID-19 body bag matter and an SRA-related case, as well as an FIR tied to a company he links to her.
- G South ward returning officer Varshani Rao confirmed an inquiry is underway and is reviewing a sworn affidavit submitted by Somaiya in support of his claims.
- The EC’s notice sets a strict deadline for Pednekar’s reply and, if suppression is proven, allows for action that could invalidate her nomination.
- A separate petition from the Shinde-led Shiv Sena challenging her nomination was not fast-tracked by the Bombay High Court, which indicated the issue should be taken up after the election.