Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has directed party workers to prepare for Assembly elections by November, as political activity intensifies in Punjab. Speaking at a press conference in Chandigarh, Sukhbir said the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is likely to call early polls to avoid the upcoming Census exercise, which is expected to begin next year.
Sukhbir Alleges Booth-Capturing in Civic Polls
Sukhbir criticized the recently concluded civic body elections, calling them a government-sponsored booth-capturing exercise. He claimed that out of 1,977 wards, SAD contested 1,251 seats, but could not field candidates in 726 wards due to rejection of nomination papers. He alleged that the AAP government deliberately rejected documents to prevent the party from contesting.
While inducting 31 of the 51 Independent councillors who have extended support to SAD, Sukhbir announced that the remaining 20 councillors would be admitted to the party shortly.
Repression by AAP Government
The SAD president accused the AAP government of targeting party workers, citing the arrest of district president Satish Grover in Faridkot and actions against Akali workers in Majitha. He said such repression has created public anger against the AAP government.
Highlighting alleged irregularities, Sukhbir gave the example of a SAD candidate in Zirakpur who, despite being shown as having the highest votes in the Returning Officer's certificate, was declared defeated by the AAP candidate. He also cited similar instances in Malout, Muktsar, and Kot Fatta.
Sukhbir urged party workers to remain vigilant and prepare for a strong electoral battle, asserting that the people of Punjab are disenchanted with the AAP government's policies and misconduct.
