Laugh or Cry? Comedian’s Nomination Rejected from PM Modi’s Seat
Credit: NDTV
1. “Comedian Shyam Rangeela’s Nomination Rejected: Challenges Against PM Modi”
2. “Election Commission Rejects Comedian’s Bid Against PM Modi: Laugh or Cry?”
3. “Shyam Rangeela’s Varanasi Nomination Rejected: Claims Unfair Treatment”
4. “Hurdles in Varanasi: Comedian Shyam Rangeela’s Candidacy Rejected”
5. “From Supporter to Challenger: Shyam Rangeela’s Nomination Against PM Modi Denied”
16.05.2024: In a surprising turn of events, comedian Shyam Rangeela’s bid to contest the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat against Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended abruptly as the Election Commission rejected his nomination. According to Rangeela, out of the 55 candidates who filed for the seat, 36 nominations
were rejected. Among the few that passed the scrutiny were those of PM Modi and Congress candidate Ajay Rai.
Hurdles in the Nomination Process
Rangeela has raised serious allegations regarding the nomination process, claiming that he faced multiple obstacles. He stated that he was not allowed to submit his papers on time and accused the District Magistrate’s office of unfair treatment.
“Today, the District Magistrate told me that there was an issue with my documents and that I did not take the oath. They did not let my lawyers accompany me and called me in alone. My friend was beaten up. Modiji may act and cry, but I don’t want to cry here,” Rangeela said.
Rangeela’s Social Media Response
In a heartfelt social media post, Rangeela expressed his disappointment but maintained his determination. He wrote, “They were determined not to let me contest from Varanasi, and now it’s clear. My heart is broken, but my spirit is not. Thank you all for your support. I request the media and well-wishers not to call me right now; I will keep updating you here as I don’t feel like talking at the moment.”
Election Commission’s Justification
The Varanasi District Magistrate’s office responded to Rangeela’s allegations by citing deficiencies in his affidavit and failure to comply with procedural requirements. They tweeted, “Your nomination paper was scrutinized in your presence, and you were informed about the deficiencies. Your nomination paper has been canceled because the affidavit submitted by you was incomplete, and you did not take the oath/affirmation. A copy of the order has also been provided to you.”
From Supporter to Challenger
Rangeela, once a vocal supporter of PM Modi, explained his shift in stance. “In 2014, I was a follower of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I shared many videos supporting him and criticizing other leaders. But the situation has changed in the last 10 years. I will now contest against the Prime Minister as an Independent candidate.”
Varanasi: A Political Battleground
The Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency is no stranger to high-profile contests. In 2014, PM Modi faced off against AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal in a historic election, which Modi won by a significant margin. The seat has been a BJP stronghold, with the party winning it multiple times since 1991, although the Congress has also seen success here in the past.
The rejection of Rangeela’s nomination adds another layer of drama to the already intense political landscape of Varanasi as the upcoming elections draw closer.