Bhilwara: Independent MLA Ashok Kothari has sought signed self-declarations from his supporter-candidates contesting the Bhilwara Nagar Nigam polls on BJP symbols, presenting it as an effort to curb post-election horse-trading and bring transparency to local politics.Kothari, who won the Bhilwara city Assembly seat as an Independent candidate backed by the Vichar Parivar and later supported the BJP govt in Rajasthan, has been given space in the civic polls by the party. His supporters were fielded on BJP symbols in 24 of the city’s 70 wards. Before the symbols were allotted, Kothari called them to his office and had them sign forms pledging their allegiance to the party.According to the declaration, the candidate states: “I… son/daughter of… BJP candidate… ward number…. in the Nagar Nigam election, taking God as witness, declare that I will never become part of unethical situations arising during the civic election and after it.” It further commits the candidate to avoid “greed or temptation”, follow constitutional rules, remain disciplined, and work for ward development and public grievances. The form carries the candidate’s name, address and signature, along with details and signatures of two witnesses.Kothari said 24 of his workers were given the form and signed it “without pressure”. He said candidates were told to sign only if their “inner conscience” agreed.“When the mayor is formed through the number of councillors, they will not become part of horse-trading and will maintain morality,” Kothari said, adding that elected councillors must not “diminish the trust of the people”.He said the BJP had respected him by fielding his supporters after consultations involving the MP, district president and former MLA Vitthal Shankar Avasthi. Kothari claimed all 70 BJP candidates would win and the party would form the board in Bhilwara.
