Silchar: BJP has formed a panel to scrutinise the academic credentials of around 250 aspirants for the Silchar civic polls, sources said.The five-member committee comprises educationists and party functionaries. Applicants have sought nominations from the corporation’s 42 wards. The panel is comparing photocopies of academic certificates with the originals to detect forged or questionable documents.Sources said allegations of fake certificates in previous civic elections prompted the scrutiny.Election authorities have prescribed graduation for general-category candidates and higher secondary education for SC candidates. The committee will submit its findings to BJP leadership before nominees are finalised.Sources said members of minority communities account for more than 40% of the aspirants. Some party functionaries have also expressed apprehension that recent entrants from rival parties could secure nominations.The committee will verify every applicant’s credentials without discrimination, sources said. Suspicious certificates will be reported to the party leadership, and BJP may seek further verification from election authorities.The party is expected to announce its candidates after completing the scrutiny and internal consultation process.Polling for the 42-member corporation is scheduled for Oct 3. Oct 5 is reserved for a repoll, if required, and counting will begin at 8 am on Oct 6.
