Chandigarh, Dec 15 (NationPress) Baltej Pannu, the General Secretary of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab, strongly dismissed the accusations made by Opposition parties regarding the Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections. He asserted that these parties are engaging in deceptive propaganda as they face the prospect of a significant defeat.

In a media briefing, Pannu emphasized that the local body elections were held in an entirely peaceful, fair, and transparent manner, marking a significant change in Punjab after many years.

He noted that voters showed remarkable enthusiasm, exercising their democratic rights without any fear or coercion. Pannu remarked, “For the first time in years, long lines of voters were seen at district council and Panchayat Samiti elections, which is a clear indication of a free and fair environment. Voters are now increasingly aware of the significance of these local institutions.”

Responding to claims made by Opposition parties, Pannu stated that their allegations of booth capturing, rigging, and intimidation are unfounded and fabricated.

“Previously, these parties claimed that candidates were barred from filing nomination papers. However, the finalized candidate list shows that candidates from all parties participated in the elections, exposing the lies of the Opposition,” he added.

Pannu also pointed out that the Opposition is making a lot of noise ahead of the results because they are fully aware of the impending public verdict.

“They are cognizant of their impending defeat. Hence, they are attempting to divert attention by spreading rumors before the results are released on December 17,” he asserted.

In reference to the history of local elections in Punjab, Pannu recalled the violence, booth capturing, and even murders that occurred during the 2008 and 2013 elections under the SAD-BJP alliance, as well as in 2018 under the Congress government.

He reiterated that even the Opposition parties had appealed to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in the past, citing incidents of booth capturing and violence during the SAD-BJP regimes.

In contrast, Pannu pointed out that this time, not a single report of booth capturing, violence, or loss of life or property has surfaced anywhere in Punjab.

He clarified that re-polling was required at only 16 booths due to technical issues, such as incorrect printing of election symbols or candidates' names, and not due to violence.

“On December 17, when the official results are announced, everyone will see the percentage of votes the Opposition received, revealing the overwhelming support for AAP due to its governance and performance. The panic from the Opposition clearly reflects the people's mandate,” Pannu concluded.