Fake Ballot Paper Carrying Gite's Name Stirs Political Row in Nashik; Senior Leaders Intervene

A fabricated ballot paper bearing the message "First Preference – Gokul Gite" circulated on social media during polling day in Nashik's Local Authorities Constituency Legislative Council election, creating friction within the Mahayuti alliance. Ganesh Gite and Gokul Gite publicly addressed the media to clarify their commitment to the alliance and warned voters against misinformation. Ganesh Gite alleged the incident was a deliberate conspiracy to defame them.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan intervened, contacting Ganesh Gite to discuss the matter. Ganesh Gite stated that neither he nor his supporters engaged in election activity after campaigning concluded, claiming an individual from Igatpuri had posted the misleading content. He reiterated full support for official Mahayuti candidate Narendra Darade. Gokul Gite similarly distanced himself from the fake ballot, stating he had no connection to it.