Summary:
Religion was used for campaigning besides allegations that Nikesh received money from bar owners. KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Friday declared as invalid the election of Azhikode MLA KM Shaji of IUML.The court considered a petition filed by his opponent MV Nikesh Kumar alleging that Shaji engaged in campaign based on communal lines and engaged in malpractices.However, the court has declined Nikesh Kumar's plea for declaring him as a winner upon cancelling Shaji's win but directed Shaji to pay Rs 50,000 to Nikesh towards legal expenses.The court found that fake pamphlets were used to influence voters on the basis of statements of the returning officer and voters..