The incident unfolded when both Kamble and Machhindra Dhawale, also from Shiv Sena, were issued A-B forms to contest the election from Ward No. 34 in Pune. These forms, essential for formally declaring a candidate, are mandatory under electoral procedures. A heated argument erupted between the two candidates, after which Kamble reportedly snatched Dhawale’s form, tore it into pieces, and swallowed them, according to police reports.
“Forms A and B are crucial documents for any political nomination,” said an official from the Pune election office. “Tampering with these forms is a serious violation of election norms.”
Following the incident, authorities launched a search for Kamble. In a twist, he arrived at the police station voluntarily, accompanied by some party officials. Kamble claimed that he was the official candidate of the party from Ward No. 36 and had received the A-B form accordingly. Despite his claims, the police have taken him into custody, and further interrogation is underway to investigate the circumstances of the event.
The Maharashtra municipal elections are scheduled for January 15, with votes to be counted the following day. The nomination process began on December 23 and concluded on December 30. Candidates have until January 2 to withdraw their nominations, and the final list of contenders will be released on January 3. Elections will be held across 29 municipal corporations, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and are seen as a key test for various state political alliances ahead of the assembly polls.
Election officials emphasized that the integrity of nomination forms is critical for a transparent and fair electoral process. Legal proceedings and internal party reviews are expected to follow as authorities assess the implications of Kamble’s actions. Meanwhile, both Shiv Sena factions continue to finalize their candidates in the run-up to the polls.
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