Who’s who? Identical names cause election chaos in Maharashtra

NEW DELHI: Several candidates with identical names are running in key constituencies in Maharashtra, creating challenges for voters and political parties.
In the Tasgaon-Kavathe Mahakal constituency of Sangli district, Rohit Raosaheb Patil, the son of former NCP leader R R Patil, is competing against Sanjay Kaka Patil of the Ajit Pawar-led NCP.
Additionally, three independent candidates with similar names—Rohit Ravsaheb Patil, Rohit Rajgonda Patil, and Rohit Rajendra Patil—are also running.
Political parties are concerned that identical names may confuse voters and affect election results, especially in close contests.
In Pune's Vadgaon Sheri assembly seat, NCP (SP) candidate Bapusaheb Tukaram Pathare has requested the disqualification of an Independent candidate with the same name, Bapu Baban Pathare, for allegedly incomplete disclosures.
The election officials, however, have accepted his nomination.
In Pune's Parvati constituency, NCP (SP) leader Ashwini Nitin Kadam is running against BJP MLA Madhuri Misal.
Here, two independent candidates with similar names, Ashwini Nitin Kadam and Ashwini Vijay Kadam, have also filed nominations.
Voters are advised to be cautious to avoid confusion between candidates with identical names.