Opposition Nominees in Patiala Seek Postponement of Municipal Polls, Accuse Police of Collusion

Patiala : A majority of opposition candidates contesting the upcoming Municipal Corporation (MC) elections in Patiala have raised serious allegations of harassment by local authorities. They claim there have been “gross violations of democratic principles,” accusing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of collaborating with the police to intimidate their campaigns.

Candidates from the BJP, Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) have expressed concerns about the electoral process, citing fear of false cases and harassment. Sources indicate that many of these candidates have refrained from campaigning due to “threats” received and the possibility of wrongful legal action.

One of the candidates shared their experience: “The cops summoned me twice, and I was warned through a relative to report to the police station. I fear that if I go, they will fabricate charges against me. They are simply trying to prevent us from campaigning.”

Amrinder Singh Bazaz, the former Mayor of Patiala and SAD halqa in-charge, has officially requested the Patiala Deputy Commissioner-cum-Election Officer to cancel the election. He has called for the elections to be rescheduled and conducted under the supervision of Central forces. In a letter, Bazaz highlighted the extensive electoral malpractices and police inaction, claiming the election process had become illegitimate due to police support for unlawful activities.

The AAP, on the other hand, has dismissed these accusations, stating that their opponents lack a strong agenda and are resorting to baseless allegations. The party has reiterated that the electoral process is being conducted fairly.