Is the Punjab Government Using Police to Intimidate Opposition in Bypoll?
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Synopsis
The Shiromani Akali Dal has raised serious allegations against the Aam Aadmi Party for misusing police officials to intimidate opposition leaders during the upcoming assembly bypoll. This complaint highlights concerns over electoral integrity and calls for a fair voting process.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of Misuse: The Akali Dal claims police are being used for intimidation.
- Call for Inquiry: Demands for an independent investigation into the allegations.
- Election Dates: Polls on November 11, counting on November 14.
- Political Neutrality: Emphasis on the need for government officials to remain unbiased.
- Public Trust: Importance of transparency in the electoral process.
Chandigarh, Oct 13 (NationPress) - The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission regarding the alleged misuse of government resources by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) during the Assembly bypoll. They accused the government of employing police officials to intimidate leaders from opposition parties.
In the complaint submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer, SAD spokesperson Arshdeep Singh Kler asserted that police officers Jagjeet Singh and Sukhbir Singh, associates of AAP candidate Harmeet Singh Sandhu, were reassigned to Tarn Taran with the aim of swaying voters.
Kler mentioned that these officials had previously held positions as Station House Officers in Tarn Taran during Sandhu's tenure as MLA.
“Their unexpected transfer and reassignment to the same locality at this critical time can only be viewed as a biased administrative maneuver designed to manipulate the electoral process,” he informed the media.
Additionally, Kler highlighted in his complaint that these officers were pressuring sarpanches, local leaders, and voters, coercing them to back the ruling party's candidate.
“There are threats of false legal actions against those who resist,” he claimed.
He pointed out that such actions are not only unethical and biased but also constitute a blatant violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the directives from the Election Commission regarding the impartiality of government officials during elections.
The Akali Dal leader called for the immediate reassignment of DSP Jagjeet Singh and DSP Sukhbir Singh from the Tarn Taran district to ensure a transparent and fair by-election. He also demanded a thorough investigation into the claims of intimidation and the abuse of police power.
Furthermore, he insisted on strict orders to all administrative and police personnel to uphold complete political neutrality while implementing the Model Code of Conduct.
Criticizing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Kler remarked that the CM is merely performing theatrics in government events and neglecting his fundamental responsibility to serve the interests of the people of Punjab.
The Tarn Taran Assembly elections are scheduled for November 11, with the results to be counted on November 14.
Point of View
It is crucial for the Election Commission to ensure that all political parties can campaign freely and fairly. The integrity of the electoral process must be upheld to maintain public trust in democracy. The situation demands careful scrutiny to safeguard against any misuse of power.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the complaint filed by the Shiromani Akali Dal?
The Shiromani Akali Dal has accused the Aam Aadmi Party government of misusing police officials to threaten opposition leaders in the upcoming assembly bypoll.
Who are the police officials mentioned in the complaint?
The police officials named are Jagjeet Singh and Sukhbir Singh, who are reported to be close aides of AAP candidate Harmeet Singh Sandhu.
What actions are being demanded by the Akali Dal?
The Akali Dal is calling for the transfer of specific police officials out of Tarn Taran to ensure free elections and has requested an independent inquiry into the allegations.
When are the elections taking place?
The Tarn Taran Assembly elections are set to occur on November 11, with the counting of votes on November 14.
What is the significance of the Model Code of Conduct?
The Model Code of Conduct is designed to ensure fair play and political neutrality by government officials during elections, which is critical for maintaining a democratic process.
