Nagpur: Girish Gandhi — one of the city’s most prominent cultural figures — defeated incumbent president Pradeep Date in one of the most discussed and debated elections of the Vidarbha Sahitya Sangh. Gandhi emerged victorious by 1,474 votes in the results declared on Sunday.“I accept this victory with gratitude and joy. I dedicate this win to the memory and legacy of Prof Ram Shewalkar,” Gandhi said. “The finest traditions of Vidarbha Sahitya Sangh will be upheld, and any shortcomings will be addressed. New constructive ideas will be introduced. I cannot compare myself with the presidents who came before me. I am fully aware of my limitations and will work for the VSS within those limits,” Gandhi added.The counting of the votes began at the Ameya Hall of the Vidarbha Sahitya Sangh at 9am. Separate ballot papers, in two distinct colours, were printed for voting for the post of president and other executive members. Gandhi secured highest number of votes (2,661). He was followed by incumbent president Pradeep Date with 1,187 votes. Dr Shripad Bhalchandra Joshi received 701 votes, Dr Ravindra Shobhane got 205 votes while Dr Ranjan Darvekar received 114.Counting for president’s post was conducted in four rounds, and Gandhi maintained his lead in each round. A total of 4,935 members cast their votes in this election. The counting process was overseen by election officer Mohan Parkhi. Like during the buildup to the polls, the counting too wasn’t without it’s share of drama. Counting was delayed due to a complaint by Vinod Deshmukh, who alleged that ballot papers belonging to 10 voters from Armori in Gadchiroli district had been cast without their knowledge. The arbitration panel ordered these ballots to be cancelled and fresh voting be conducted for these voters.
