New Delhi: The Election Commission (EC) has taken action following a complaint lodged by the Congress party, directing the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to authenticate the details provided in the election affidavit of Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the BJP's candidate for the Thiruvananthapuram constituency.
Chandrasekhar had disclosed his taxable income as Rs 680 for the fiscal year 2021-2022, prompting the Congress to question the accuracy of the information provided.
In response to the complaint lodged by the Congress on Monday, the EC initiated an inquiry into the matter, considering the allegations of false information regarding Chandrasekhar's financial status. The Congress asserted that this purported misinformation amounted to a violation of electoral laws under the Representation of the People Act 1951 and the Indian Penal Code.
The EC, upon reviewing the complaint, has instructed the CBDT to verify the declarations furnished by Chandrasekhar in his election affidavit.
Candidates contesting in elections are mandated to furnish comprehensive details of their taxable income, assets (both movable and immovable), and liabilities. Additionally, they are required to divulge similar financial particulars concerning their spouse, as per electoral regulations.