India, Dec. 28 -- Candidates hoping for a seat at the table in the BMC must first pass the "toilet test". They must prove - with visuals - that they have a toilet in their home, or access to a public toilet.

It's downright embarrassing, candidates say, but they have no choice. Among the list of documents they must submit with their nomination papers is a certificate or self-declaration, stating that they have a toilet at home. Those who do not have a "private toilet" are required to certify that they use public toilets and declare that they do not practise open defecation.

This seemingly awkward requirement arises from the state government's Swachh Maharashtra Abhiyan, a mission that attempts to end open defecation in the state. And who...