AAP alleges candidate was kidnapped at the behest of BJP, EC asks Gujarat CEO to investigate

After the Aam Aadmi Party's allegation of kidnapping its MLA in Gujarat, the Election Commission has asked the state chief electoral officer to investigate the matter and take action "as warranted". AAP has alleged that its Surat (East) candidate was "kidnapped and forced to withdraw" his name from the the election at the behest of ruling BJP.
AAP alleged that Kanchan Jariwala was abducted at the behest of the BJP, which "feared" a defeat on the seat in the Gujarat elections.

A four-member delegation of AAP led by Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia met the Election officials today to complain against the incidence.


Sisodia alleged that AAP candidate from Surat (East) Kanchan Jariwala was forced to withdraw his nomination when he went to the returning officer's office.

An EC spokesperson said AAP's complaint has been sent to the CEO in Gujarat to inquire and take "action as warranted".

However, Jariwala, has issued a video statement in which he purportedly said he withdrew his nomination without any pressure and by listening to his conscience after the people of his constituency labelled him "anti-national" and "anti-Gujarat" for contesting the election from the AAP.

Sisodia claimed Jariwala had been missing along with his family members since Tuesday, adding that the last time the candidate was seen at the Election Commission's office in Surat during scrutiny of his nomination papers.

Sisodia also hit out at the Gujarat chief electoral officer and accused her of not taking appropriate action to "trace and rescue" Jariwala.

The deputy chief minister of Delhi and other party leaders, earlier in the day, held a protest outside the EC office over the alleged abduction.

Several party leaders and workers gathered at the spot and raised slogans against the BJP.

EC sources said AAP's request for a meeting with the Commission was received only past noon and their dharna at Nirvachan Sadan gate preceded it.

(Inputs from PTI)