Kerala HC disqualifies IUML MLA for communal poll-campaign in 2016
The Kerala High Court today disqualified an MLA of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), on a plea claiming that he used religion to win the Assembly polls in 2016. The Muslim League is a partner of the Congress-led opposition UDF in the state. IUML, meanwhile, said it will take a decision on filing an appeal after getting the judgment copy. Here's more.
Shaji disqualified for six years by the High Court
KM Shaji, who had won the elections from Azhikode Assembly constituency in 2016, was disqualified for six years. Justice P D Rajan directed the Kerala Assembly Speaker and the Election Commission to take appropriate action based on the verdict. The court gave the judgment on a plea filed by Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate MV Nikesh Kumar, who contested the election against Shaji.
Shaji appealed to voters on religious grounds: LDF candidate
In his petition, Nikesh accused Shaji of violating norms prescribed under various sections of the Representation of the People Act to win by a margin of 2,287 votes. Nikesh further alleged that an appeal was made by Shaji to vote for the UDF-candidate on grounds of his religion (Muslim). He alleged Shaji circulated pamphlets urging people not to vote for a non-Islamic believer candidate.
