53% candidates in Gujarat do not have PAN numbers

Although there are Lakhpati and crorepati candidates contesting LS polls in Gujarat, but a majority of them do not have PAN.

Although there are Lakhpati and crorepati candidates contesting Lok Sabha polls in Gujarat, but a majority of them do not have Permanent Account (PAN) numbers!

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A finding by city-based voluntary organisation Gujarat Election Watch Committee (GEWC), has revealed that more than half of 162 candidates in fray for the coming Lok Sabha elections do not possess PAN numbers.

Revealing contents of the findings based on affidavits filed by candidates, GEWC co-ordinator Jagdeep Chhokar told newsmen in Ahmedabad on Monday 86 of the total 162 candidates do not possess PAN numbers.

"Interestingly, three candidates who have declared assets of above Rs one crore and several who have assets up to several lakh do not have PAN number," he said, adding "several candidates have stated in their affidavits that they have applied for PAN number."

The three crorepatis includes Congress candidates Mohammed Fansiwala and Veerji Thummar contesting Bharuch and Amreli Lok Sabha seats respectively and one independent candidate.

Eight from Congress, three from BJP, 41 independent candidates and 34 belonging to 'other parties' do not possess PAN number, the finding said.