Election agent Mahesh Malik alleged that the Shiv Sena candidate, who is contesting for Mumbai North West constituency, has not declared assets of his second wife
An allegation raised against Shiv Sena candidate Gajanan Kirtikar created quite a stir at the returning officer’s chambers in Andheri, where his affidavit for Mumbai North West constituency was being scrutinised. Election agent Mahesh Malik, who represents independent candidate Pradeep T, said that Kirtikar is a bigamist and hasn’t declared the assets belonging to his second wife. Kirtikar rubbished these claims.
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Two or one?: Kirtikar said that he has never heard the name Vidisha, and that the allegation was an attempt to tarnish his image. File pic
According to sources, a dossier including the names of two women — allegedly both Kirtikar’s wives — has been making rounds in the Mumbai North West constituency. It says that while Kirtikar’s first wife, Meghna, is acknowledged by Kirtikar, his second wife, Vidisha, is a resident of Kothrud — something that is not mentioned in the affidavit.
Ruben Mascarenhas, the authorised agent for AAP candidate Mayank Gandhi, was present at the office for Gandhi’s affidavit and witnessed the drama. “The issue came up on Monday afternoon, when Malik raised the question of Kirtikar not disclosing the assets of his second wife. Anil Parab, Kirtikar’s election agent, refuted the claims and said, ‘Kirtikar officially has one wife and her assets are declared in the affidavit,’” said Mascarenhas.
Contacted by mid-day, Malik refused to discuss the matter, saying, “Forget the objection now,” and disconnecting his phone. The Congress website says that Malik is vice-president of the Congress committee in Mumbai North West.
Returning officer for the North West constituency, Kumar Khaire, said, “Such objections aren’t dealt with by returning officers. They should take it to court. If anyone has an objection of this sort, they should file an affidavit and we would upload that on the website.”
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