Jethmalani pleads for Chavan's disqualification

Eminent jurist Ram Jethmalani on Friday pleaded for the disqualification of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan for allegedly resorting to paid news in the assembly polls in the state last year.

Jethmalani, appearing for Bharatiya Janata Party's Kirit Somaiya before the Election Commission which is hearing the petition against Chavan, said that the former Cheif Minister did not properly present election expenses.

He also contended that since the EC was acting as a tribunal  in the case, the Evidence Act was applicable making it mandatory for the concerned newspapers to file affidavits in support of their claims against publishing paid news of Chavan.

Sources said that Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Chavan, would be arguing on January 4.