Sanjay Raut Slams Election Commission Over BJP Symbol Use in Voting Room, Targets Ravindra Chavan

Sanjay Raut has criticised the Election Commission after alleging that BJP symbol was used inside a voting room by Ravindra Chavan, raising questions over election transparency.

January 15, 2026 | Mumbai – Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India after alleging serious irregularities involving BJP leader Ravindra Chavan during the ongoing municipal elections in Maharashtra. Raut claimed that a BJP symbol was displayed inside a voting room, calling it a blatant violation of election rules and a threat to the fairness of the electoral process.

Addressing the media, Sanjay Raut alleged that Ravindra Chavan was associated with the use of a BJP election symbol inside the polling area, which is strictly prohibited under election guidelines. He said that polling booths and voting rooms are meant to remain politically neutral spaces, and the presence of any party symbol inside them amounts to influencing voters. According to Raut, such actions compromise the integrity of elections and raise serious doubts about the Election Commission’s enforcement of rules.

Raut questioned whether election authorities were applying rules equally to all parties. He accused the Election Commission of remaining silent despite what he described as clear visual evidence of the violation. Raut argued that if opposition leaders were involved in similar actions, immediate action would have been taken, alleging selective enforcement of election norms.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader demanded an explanation from the Election Commission and called for strict action against those responsible. He stated that municipal elections directly affect citizens at the grassroots level, and even small violations can influence voter behaviour. According to him, allowing such incidents to go unchecked damages public confidence in democratic institutions.

Reacting to the allegations, BJP leaders dismissed Sanjay Raut’s claims as politically motivated and misleading. They argued that the accusations were being made to create controversy and distract from the opposition’s electoral challenges. BJP representatives stated that Ravindra Chavan had not violated any election rules and that the matter was being exaggerated for political gain.

Election officials responded by stating that they were examining the complaint as per established procedures. Authorities clarified that any violation of election guidelines, if proven, would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law. The Election Commission reiterated that it remains committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections across Maharashtra.

Political analysts believe that Sanjay Raut’s statements reflect the heightened tension surrounding municipal elections in the state. With civic polls becoming increasingly competitive, allegations and counter-allegations have become a common feature of the election narrative. Experts note that such controversies often emerge during tightly contested elections, where even minor procedural issues can turn into major political flashpoints.

Observers also point out that repeated accusations against the Election Commission can influence public perception. While opposition leaders argue that raising concerns is essential to protect democracy, others caution that unverified claims may erode trust in electoral institutions if not backed by conclusive evidence.

As of January 15, 2026, the issue remains under scrutiny, with election authorities expected to review available material and submit their findings. The controversy surrounding the alleged use of a BJP symbol inside a voting room has added another layer of political confrontation to the Maharashtra municipal elections.

The incident has once again highlighted the importance of strict adherence to election rules and impartial enforcement. As voting continues across various regions, maintaining transparency and neutrality remains crucial to ensuring that the democratic process is upheld and that voters can exercise their rights without influence or pressure.

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