High-Stakes Drama: Ex-Congress Leader's Last-Minute Hurdle in Maharashtra Election Run

Former Maharashtra minister Anees Ahmed, now with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, failed to file his nomination for the Nagpur Central seat by mere minutes, citing various obstacles. His absence raises questions amid speculations about Congress's influence and concerns over vote splitting in the Muslim-majority constituency.

High drama unfolded at the Nagpur collectorate when Anees Ahmed, a former Maharashtra minister running under the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi ticket, narrowly missed his chance to file nomination papers for the Nagpur Central seat due to a deadline lapse.

Staying at the collectorate until 8 pm on the final submission day, Ahmed cited roadblocks, vehicular restrictions, and security protocols at the Returning Officer's office as reasons for the delay, although he claimed to have arrived before the 3 pm cutoff.

Amidst controversies and speculation of Congress pressuring him not to contest, Ahmed's failed candidacy could influence the Muslim vote, previously threatened by his recent departure from Congress days before joining the Prakash Ambedkar-led Aghadi.

(With inputs from agencies.)