‘44% candidates did not furnish PAN card details in 2007 polls’

Almost half of leaders from all major parties in Gujarat who contested the Assembly polls in 2007 had failed to furnish their PAN card details, according to a report prepared by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), an independent body.

The report by ADR — a non-political body that pushes for democratic reforms by compiling poll specific data — said that of the 544 candidates, 242 (44 per cent) had not given their PAN card details.

But this is set to change thanks to new rules laid down by the Election Commission.

"A change in affidavit format for candidates will be a major game changer. In a move from the 2007 elections, apart from academic qualification and incomes, all candidates will have to declare their assets along with their purchase and present value and mandatorily furnish details of spouse and at least three family members. The new affidavit will run into 15 pages," said Ajit Ranade, one of the founders of ADR, on Sunday.

"Apart from incomes, the candidates will have to report any ongoing or pending court cases that a candidate may have in his name. Being a legal statement, candidates faking their details can have their candidature cancelled and be barred from contesting again," he said.

MLAs with highest income

Saurabh Patel (BJP): Rs 65 crore

Siddharth Patel (Cong): Rs 19 crore

Javahar Chavda (Cong): Rs 18 crore

Pabubha Manek (BJP): Rs 13 crore

Hira Solanki (BJP): Rs 12 crore

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