Chandigarh: The issue of alleged intimidation during the Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections in Punjab has intensified. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a notice to the State Election Commission after petitions filed by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the BJP, seeking action over reported incidents of interference during the nomination process. The court has directed the commission to file its reply by Monday.
Advocate Arshdeep Kaler said the petition highlights several instances where candidates were allegedly stopped by police and ruling party workers, and their nomination papers were torn. He added that these incidents point towards an organised attempt to influence the election process.
Kaler also referred to an allegedly leaked audio clip attributed to the Patiala SSP, in which instructions were reportedly given to block candidates from filing their papers. He said the clip reflects direct interference and raises serious concerns about the integrity of the election.
Today marked the final day for filing nominations for the Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections. SAD leaders earlier alleged widespread intimidation at several locations and had urged the Election Commission to ensure free and fair polls. Youth leaders Arshdeep Singh Kaler and Sarabjit Singh Jhinjar had also met officials seeking action.
A complaint regarding the Patiala SSP’s alleged audio was also submitted before the petition was filed in the High Court. The court will now review the matter after seeking the Election Commission’s response.
