Jharkhand Rajya Sabha polls: Parimal Nathwani’s nomination under scrutiny

Ranchi: A dramatic twist emerged in Jharkhand’s Rajya Sabha election process during scrutiny of nomination papers, with Independent candidate Parimal Nathwani facing uncertainty over a name-related discrepancy, while nominations of Baijnath Ram and Pranav Jha were declared valid.

During examination of documents submitted by Nathwani, an objection was raised after his name appeared as “Parimal Nathwani” in some records and “Nathwani Parimal” in others. Citing this variation, a complaint was filed challenging the validity of his nomination. Following scrutiny, election authorities put his nomination on hold pending a final decision.

Soon after learning about the objection, Nathwani reached the Jharkhand Assembly Secretariat and appeared before Returning Officer Ranjit Kumar to clarify his position. A lengthy discussion on legal aspects followed in the office of Returning Officer. Despite contesting as an Independent candidate, several senior BJP leaders were also present at the Assembly Secretariat and closely monitored proceedings, fuelling political speculation around evolving electoral equations.

Meanwhile, nominations filed by JMM candidate Baijnath Ram and Congress candidate Pranav Jha successfully passed scrutiny and were found valid.

The Returning Officer has scheduled a final hearing on objection at 11 am on Wednesday. Nathwani or his authorised representative has been directed to appear before election authorities. Attention is now focused on hearing, which will determine whether name variation is treated as a clerical error or becomes a significant hurdle in Nathwani’s bid for a Rajya Sabha seat.