The stage is set for the civic body elections in SAS Nagar district as campaigning officially ended on Wednesday evening. The district administration has confirmed that all necessary arrangements are in place for the smooth conduct of the polls, which are scheduled to take place on Sunday.
Campaigning Ends Amid Controversy
The election campaign, which saw intense activity across the district, concluded with a controversy in Ward No. 10. Reports indicate that allegations of code of conduct violations have emerged, with rival candidates accusing each other of distributing money and gifts to voters. The matter has been reported to the Election Commission, which is expected to take appropriate action.
District Administration's Preparations
The SAS Nagar district administration has made comprehensive arrangements for the elections. A total of 150 polling stations have been set up across the district, with adequate security personnel deployed to ensure a peaceful voting process. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have been distributed to all polling stations, and officials have been trained to handle any technical glitches.
District Election Officer (DEO) Rajesh Kumar stated, "We are fully prepared for the elections. All necessary measures have been taken to ensure that the voting process is free, fair, and transparent. Voters are encouraged to come out in large numbers and exercise their franchise."
Controversy in Ward No. 10
The controversy in Ward No. 10 has been a major talking point in the final days of the campaign. Candidates from both the ruling party and the opposition have traded accusations of bribery and intimidation. A video allegedly showing a candidate distributing cash to voters has gone viral on social media, prompting the Election Commission to seek a report from the district administration.
Local resident Sunita Sharma said, "We are tired of such allegations every election. We just want a clean and fair election so that we can choose the right candidate for our ward." The Election Commission has assured that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of violating the model code of conduct.
Voter Turnout Expected to Be High
Officials are expecting a high voter turnout this year, given the intense campaigning and the controversies that have generated public interest. In the last civic body elections, the voter turnout was around 65%, but this time, it is expected to cross 70%.
To facilitate voting, the district administration has arranged for special transport facilities for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Additionally, voter awareness campaigns have been conducted in all wards to educate citizens about the importance of voting.
Key Candidates and Issues
The main contest is between the ruling party and the opposition, with several independent candidates also in the fray. Key issues in this election include waste management, water supply, road conditions, and street lighting. Candidates have promised to address these issues if elected.
In Ward No. 10, the controversy has overshadowed the actual issues. Opposition candidate Amarjeet Singh said, "The ruling party is using money power to win this election. We demand a thorough investigation into the allegations." On the other hand, the ruling party candidate, who has been accused, denied all charges, calling them a "political conspiracy."
Security Arrangements
Security has been tightened across the district, especially in sensitive wards. A total of 1,000 police personnel, including 200 home guards, have been deployed. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) will be on standby to handle any untoward incidents. The district administration has also imposed Section 144 in areas around polling stations to prevent any gatherings.
"We are committed to ensuring a peaceful election. Any attempt to disrupt the process will be dealt with firmly," said Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar.
As the district gears up for the polls, all eyes are on Ward No. 10, where the controversy has added an extra layer of drama to the electoral battle. The results will be declared on Monday, and the winning candidates will be sworn in later this week.
