Pune: The Kondhwa Police have filed a case against three individuals for engaging in illegal campaigning on auto-rickshaws, even though the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has not yet officially declared its candidates. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Parge Lawns in Kondhwa.
The accused, identified as Govind Sudam Ghadge (32), Appa Rama Salve (36), and Dattatraya Tryambak Shitole (50), were found displaying unauthorized banners and playing loud music from their rickshaws.
The banners featured the clock symbol, which is associated with the NCP, along with slogans promoting development under the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. Additionally, they were broadcasting a song with the lyrics "NCP Again" using loudspeakers.
The complaint was lodged by Nagnath Mane, Assistant Superintendent of the Public Health Department, after observing the violation of campaign regulations.
The banners displayed on the rickshaws did not include the names of the publisher or printer, a legal requirement for campaign materials. Furthermore, the use of loudspeakers and banners without proper permission was a direct violation of the district magistrate's orders.
Police Sub-Inspector Ravindra Gawade is currently leading the investigation. The accused have been charged with conducting an unauthorized campaign and defying official orders by promoting the NCP without obtaining the necessary permissions.
Ajit Pawar-led NCP released its first list of 38 candidates on Wednesday (October 23) for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Ajit Pawar himself will contest from his stronghold in Baramati, with his nomination filing scheduled for October 28.
