Why is BJP Demanding Videography for Punjab Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti Elections?
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Synopsis
The Punjab BJP, led by Jagmohan Singh Raju, is pressing the state Election Commission for videography of the upcoming Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections to ensure a fair electoral process. Concerns over undue influence by the ruling AAP have sparked this call for transparency and neutrality in the election process.
Key Takeaways
- BJP's demand for election videography aims to ensure transparency.
- Concerns over ruling party influence on election officials.
- Previous incidents of intimidation against BJP candidates.
- Request for concurrent elections to minimize disruption.
- Importance of free and fair elections highlighted.
Chandigarh, Dec 3 (NationPress) A team from the Punjab BJP, headed by General Secretary Jagmohan Singh Raju, met with the state Election Commissioner on Wednesday. They requested explicit instructions to guarantee the fair operation of state machinery and to mandate videography of the electoral process for the forthcoming Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections.
In a letter from the party’s state working President Ashwani Sharma to the Commission, he raised alarms regarding claims that various Returning Officers and police personnel were allegedly acting under the undue influence of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), causing disruptions during the nomination paper submissions by Opposition candidates.
The communication stressed that all candidates should be allowed to submit their nominations without any obstacles and that the neutrality of officials must be upheld to protect the democratic process.
Sharma pointed out past instances from previous local body elections where state officials purportedly acted on behalf of the ruling party to hinder the BJP and other Opposition candidates from submitting their nominations.
The letter also mentioned a recent incident where Gurpreet Singh, the BJP’s mandal president from Majri, was allegedly threatened by Station House Officer Ajay Parocha with arrest if BJP candidates tried to file their nomination papers.
The BJP fervently urged the Election Commission to necessitate videography of the entire election process, encompassing the filing of nomination papers, scrutiny, withdrawal, polling, counting, and result declaration.
As per the BJP, comprehensive videography would bolster transparency, dissuade the misuse of official power, and guarantee the availability of verifiable proof in case of disputes or investigations.
The delegation requested that the Panchayat Samiti elections for Dera Bassi, Kharar, and Majri be conducted concurrently with the elections for the Mohali Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti, thus avoiding unnecessary administrative efforts, financial costs, and disruptions to district operations.
The party asserted that free, fair, and peaceful elections are fundamental to democracy and should not be compromised by intimidation or the misuse of state institutions.
They urged the state Election Commission to take prompt action to ensure complete neutrality among state officials, allowing the upcoming elections to be conducted in a transparent, unbiased, and seamless manner.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the BJP's call for transparency in the electoral process. Ensuring that elections are conducted free from external influences is a cornerstone of democracy. The concerns raised by the BJP reflect a broader need for accountability in governance, highlighting the importance of fair practices during elections.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BJP requesting from the Election Commission?
The BJP is requesting mandatory videography of the election process to ensure transparency and fairness.
Why is there concern over the upcoming elections?
There are concerns about the undue influence of the ruling AAP on Returning Officers and police officials affecting the nomination process for Opposition candidates.
What incidents prompted this action from the BJP?
Incidents of alleged threats and interference encountered by BJP candidates during previous local body elections prompted this request.
What are the proposed election locations?
The proposed locations for the elections include Dera Bassi, Kharar, and Majri, along with the Mohali Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti.
Why is videography important for the elections?
Videography is considered crucial for enhancing transparency, deterring misuse of authority, and providing verifiable evidence in case of disputes.
