Chandigarh: Leader of the opposition in the Punjab assembly, Partap Singh Bajwa, on Friday condemned the alleged threatening statements made by AAP MLA Kulwant Singh Bazigar during the campaigning for the ongoing civic body elections in Shutrana. Bajwa stated that such remarks expose the 'true face' of the Aam Aadmi Party and pose a direct threat to democracy and free elections in the state.
Bajwa's allegations against AAP
Bajwa said the politics of 'Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed', once openly advocated by senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia, was now being implemented in toto in Punjab through intimidation, coercion and misuse of state machinery. He alleged that the MLA reportedly threatened to 'lock the doors of polling booths' and ensure the victory of AAP candidates through pressure and fear if people did not vote in their favour.
Call for intervention
Calling the statements 'deeply objectionable and alarming', the Congress leader said such threats created fear among voters, opposition candidates and polling personnel, thereby undermining the sanctity of the democratic process. Democracy cannot function under fear, intimidation and abuse of power, he added.
Bajwa wrote to the State Election Commission (SEC) seeking immediate intervention and strict action in the matter. In his letter, the Qadian legislator demanded that the commission 'ensure completely free, fair and transparent' civic body elections in Shutrana by deploying adequate police force and independent observers at sensitive polling stations. He further urged the SEC to take strict action against any attempt to influence voters through threats or coercion. Bajwa also demanded live telecast and proper recording of both voting and counting processes, with the footage being made publicly available through the official platforms of the SEC to ensure transparency and restore public confidence.
