Is Congress Leader Navin Yadav in Trouble for Distributing Voter Cards?
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Synopsis
In a controversial turn of events, Congress leader Navin Yadav faces police scrutiny for allegedly distributing EPIC voter cards to influence votes ahead of the Jubilee Hills by-election. This article delves into the implications and legal ramifications of this incident as the election date approaches.
Key Takeaways
- Navin Yadav booked for distributing EPIC cards.
- Charges filed under electoral corrupt practices.
- By-election scheduled for November 11.
- Event organized to influence voters raises legal concerns.
- Incident highlights ongoing electoral integrity issues.
Hyderabad, Oct 7 (NationPress) - Congress leader Navin Yadav, viewed as the leading candidate for the party's nomination in the upcoming by-election for the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency, has been charged by the police for allegedly distributing EPIC cards to voters in an effort to sway their votes.
The FIR was filed at Madhura Nagar Police Station following a complaint from Electoral Registration Officer G. Rajinikanth Reddy.
Charges against him fall under sections 170, 171, and 174 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as well as sections 123 (1) and 123 (2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which pertain to corrupt electoral practices.
Yadav is among three candidates shortlisted by the Telangana Congress and is expected to be confirmed as the party nominee by central leadership.
The Election Commission of India has announced that the by-election will take place on November 11.
Reportedly, Yadav obtained, printed, and distributed EPICs during a public event labeled ‘Voter Cards Distribution Programme’ at the Congress Office near Yousufguda Check-post.
Local investigations suggest that this event occurred before the Dasara festival (before October 2, 2025), and not right before the complaint was filed.
It has been indicated that the event was organized with the presence of political figures and party banners, implying a potential attempt to influence voters, which could be classified as bribery or undue influence under election laws.
The incident was first reported in a Telugu newspaper. A written complaint was subsequently submitted on October 6 by Raghunandan Rao, the MP from Medak constituency.
In response to the complaint, the Electoral Registration Officer submitted a report at 19:10 hours on October 6, leading to the FIR being registered at Madhura Nagar Police Station with Yadav named as the accused.
Preliminary findings suggest that Yadav acquired e-EPIC copies from legitimate EPIC holders, printed and laminated them for distribution. The distributed EPICs appear to lack an official hologram, as seen in the circulated photographs and videos related to the event.
The need for this by-election stems from the passing of sitting MLA Maganti Gopinath of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in June.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of electoral integrity. The allegations against Navin Yadav highlight the ongoing challenges within the political landscape of India. The law must take its course to ensure that democratic processes remain untainted. The Nation stands firm in its commitment to report truthfully and impartially.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Navin Yadav?
Navin Yadav has been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Representation of the People Act, relating to corrupt practices in elections.
When is the by-election for Jubilee Hills?
The by-election for Jubilee Hills is scheduled for November 11.
Who filed the complaint against Navin Yadav?
The complaint was filed by Electoral Registration Officer G. Rajinikanth Reddy.
What is the significance of the EPIC cards in this case?
The EPIC cards are used as a form of voter identification, and distributing them in the manner alleged could be seen as an attempt to influence voter behavior.
What prompted the need for a by-election?
The by-election is necessitated by the death of the sitting MLA, Maganti Gopinath, from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi.
