The Bombay High Court has dismissed an election petition seeking to annul the 2024 State Assembly election victory of BJP MLA Rajendra Dhedya Gavit from the 130-Palghar-ST Assembly Constituency. The Single-Bench Judge, Justice Sandeep V. Marne, found the petition lacking in a “concise statement of material facts” and “full particulars of corrupt practice,” as mandated by the Representation of People Act, 1951.
The petition, filed by Sudhir Brijendra Jain, a voter and social activist, primarily hinged on MLA Gavit’s declaration in Form-26, where he listed Rupali Gavit as his “Spouse No. 2.” Jain argued this declaration was false, contravened Rule 4A of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 and constituted improper acceptance of nomination and corrupt practice.
