Video Goes Viral: Sarpanch Candidate’s Aide Caught Offering TVs, Cash Incentives To Voters In Panchmahal, Authorities Launch Probe
Panchmahal: With the village panchayat elections scheduled for June 22, 2025, controversy has erupted from Demli village of Shehra taluka. A video showing a breach of the election model code of conduct has gone viral, leading to an official complaint being filed at the Shehra police station.
According to reports, Rajesh alias Lalabhai Bharwad, husband of Manjulaben Rajesh Bharwad, the female candidate contesting for the position of village sarpanch, allegedly held a public gathering on June 16 without prior approval. During this unauthorized event, he is accused of making enticing offers to voters to sway their support.
The viral video shows promises of financial and material incentives: ₹5,100 to families during bereavement, a 24-inch LED TV on the occasion of a daughter’s wedding, and a sack containing of grains. A man wearing a pink T-shirt and black pants is seen in the video delivering these promises to attendees.
Following a complaint by Rameshbhai Laxmanbhai Damor, legal proceedings have been initiated after a written application was submitted to the Mamlatdar and Executive Magistrate’s office. Authorities have begun investigating the violation of the model code of conduct ahead of the June 22 elections.
Upon the video surfacing on WhatsApp, election officials took action. The Taluka Development Officer (TDO) of Shehra and other officials have filed a complaint against Manjulaben and her husband for allegedly violating election norms.
Reportedly, Rajesh Bharwad admitted to being present at the public meeting but denied making any such promises himself. He claimed that someone from the audience may have made such statements, and added that he couldn’t control what others said during the gathering.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, and legal action is underway in what could be a significant case of electoral misconduct in the run-up to the village panchayat elections.