Nizamabad MP Arvind Faces Criminal Charges for Polling Station Incident
In a significant development, Hyderabad police have formally registered a criminal case against Dharmapuri Arvind, the Member of Parliament from Nizamabad, along with several associates. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on Thursday during municipal elections, where the MP is accused of intimidating policemen and election staff at a polling station.
Legal Framework and Specific Charges
The case has been filed under multiple legal provisions, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations. Police have invoked Section 132 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to assault or criminal force used to deter a public servant from discharging their duty. Additionally, Section 223, addressing disobedience to orders duly promulgated by a public servant, has been applied. The Telangana Municipalities Act also features in the charges, underscoring the election-related context of the incident.
Detailed Account of the Alleged Incident
According to official police reports, the incident unfolded at approximately 3 pm at the Haricharan Marwadi School, where polling was actively underway. Arvind, accompanied by his associates, arrived at the location and entered the premises. The MP allegedly claimed that a contesting candidate had been asked to leave the polling booth, which prompted his intervention.
Once inside, Arvind is accused of obstructing the normal functioning of the polling staff. This obstruction reportedly involved high-handed behavior and the use of objectionable language directed at policemen who were on duty to ensure a smooth electoral process. The actions are said to have created a tense atmosphere, potentially disrupting the integrity of the voting proceedings.
Formal Complaint and Police Action
The case was initiated based on a formal complaint lodged by election officials present at the scene. Their account detailed the alleged intimidation and obstruction, leading police to register the criminal case promptly. This step highlights the authorities' commitment to maintaining law and order during elections, ensuring that public servants can perform their duties without fear or interference.
The registration of the case against a sitting MP underscores the legal ramifications of such incidents, regardless of the individual's political stature. It serves as a reminder that election-related misconduct is taken seriously, with potential consequences under both criminal and municipal laws.
