Salem fights for right to contest poll

MUMBAI: Abu Salem’s lawyers are fighting a new legal battle for their client, one that is aimed at helping the gangster make his political debut.

Surprised to find Salem’s name missing from the electoral list for the Uttar Pradesh assembly polls early next year, lawyers Ashok Saraogi and Priyatosh Tiwari are threatening to challenge the “serious omission” in the Allahabad high court.

The lawyers say the don is a native of Saraimir in Azamgarh district, and intend to take the matter up with the Election Commission. Inclusion in the electoral list is crucial for the don, who plans to contest the election.

Tiwari said, “How can Salem’s name be not included though records show him to be an Indian national? The extradition documents also prove his nationality.”