Nearly 61% of voters participated in Punjab’s civic body elections by 5 p.m., amidst reports of clashes and attempts to influence voters. The elections, crucial for the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, saw skirmishes and allegations of voter intimidation. Ballot counting for eight municipal corporations, 75 municipal councils, and 20 nagar panchayats is scheduled for May 29.
In various locations, including Samana town and Majitha town, incidents of violence and misconduct were reported. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia accused AAP workers, gangsters, and police of engaging in booth capturing and violence. He alleged that opposition workers and voters were intimidated during the polling process. In Nawanshahr town, tensions rose as Independent candidates engaged in heated arguments over alleged voter influence.
The Shiromani Akali Dal filed a criminal complaint against a legislator and his associates for booth capturing and interference in the election process. SAD demanded police action against those involved in the incidents. The State Congress President sought an FIR against those spreading a fake audio recording attributed to him. The state Election Commission deployed a significant number of police personnel and election staff to ensure fair elections.
