No contest on most seats as 29 withdraw nominations

Surat: With 29 candidates withdrawing their forms on Tuesday, the election for the Federation of Surat Textile Traders’ Association, has virtually become a no-contest. Earlier, it was claimed that the polls for the trade body would turn out to be an interesting battle between two groups. But now, with only 55 candidates in the fray, the picture is clear with no contest on most seats. The election is scheduled for July 8.
There are 41 seats for the post of directors. A total of 94 candidates had filed nominations from both the groups — Vikas Panel and Ekta Panel. However, after form cancellation and withdrawal now only 55 candidates are in the fray.
“Candidates from the panel of small traders are being pressured into withdrawing forms. They being businessmen, want to avoid political conflict. People associated with textile processing industries are bringing politics into a trade body,” said Champala Bothra, one of the candidates and vice-president of Gujarat of Confederation of All India Traders.
Refuting the claims, Dinesh Kataria, one of the candidates, said, “The claims are baseless and candidates are withdrawing forms in support of efforts to improve the overall scenario. There were people managing FOSTTA for eight years and if they did good work, why are they not getting support now.”
“The list of 55 candidates is final as of now and all are textile traders. There was no election for eight years hence there is enthusiasm and excitement,” said Ashok Jain, joint election officer.