AIMIM’s plan to enter polls dashed

Mumbai: All- India MajliseIttehadul Musalmeen’s ( AIMIM) grand plan to make a foray into the BMC and Thane Municipal Corporation elections was dashed as the state election commission deregistered it.

The All- India Majlis-eIttehadul Musalmeen’s ( AIMIM) grand plan to make a foray into Br i h a n m u m b a i Municipal Corporation ( BMC) and Thane Municipal Corporation election has been dashed as the state election commission de- registered it on Wednesday. MIM, as well as other 190 parties, were de- registered as they failed to submit income tax returns within the stipulated time. According to political observers, though AIMIM could still contest the civic poll, the loss of its official party symbol will affect its performance. Meanwhile, MIM MLA Waris Pathan said that the party would appeal the decision.

The State Election Commission of Maharashtra’s ( SECM) list of 191 de- registered political parties includes 12 major unrecognised political parties from the state and across the country. In a statement issued by the SECM, election commissioner J. S. Sahariya said that despite reminding the parties to submit their audited accounts and income tax returns, they did not submit the same. The development means that MIM will not be able to field candidates on its party symbol. However, the candidates can contest as independent candidates who will be allocated any of the free symbols.

MIM MLA, advocate Waris Pathan said, “The party received notice four months ago from the Election Commission and the party has replied to it. Now we will appeal ( against) the decision to a higher authority,” said Mr Pathan.

The MIM was planning to contest the ensuing 2017 civic elections in the Mumbai and Thane municipal corporations.

Mr Sahariya said that as per rules, political parties registered with it have to annually submit their audited accounts and filed IT returns.