14 october 2024 : In the lead-up to the panchayat elections scheduled for October 15, Punjab’s rural landscape has been heavily influenced by the distribution of liquor and non-vegetarian food. The campaign, which concluded today, saw candidates engaging voters through the distribution of soft drinks, sweets, and fast food langars in numerous villages.
Reports of monetary influence have surfaced in villages where general candidates, including those reserved for women, are competing. Raj Kamal Chaudhari, the State Election Commissioner, emphasized that Deputy Commissioners and District Election Officers are actively addressing complaints regarding the use of money or liquor to sway voters.
In Sakkanwali village, the highest vote-buying rates were reported, with claims that “jattan di arhi” (influence of the Jat community) is leading to increased cash offers. Former minister and Fatehgarh Churian MLA Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa accused police officers of facilitating vote management for the ruling party.
Another anonymous politician from Ropar alleged manipulation of voter lists, claiming rural voters were omitted while urban voters were included. Chaudhari reiterated the prohibition on enticements for votes, stating that any violations will be met with action.
A total of 25,588 candidates are contesting for sarpanch positions, while 80,598 are vying for panch seats, with 3,798 sarpanches and 48,861 panches already elected unopposed. Although these elections are non-partisan, all political parties are exerting their influence to support their affiliated candidates.
In Bathinda’s Tungwali village, residents have been enjoying egg curry, chicken, and pakoras for the past week. Reports from Fattewal village in Ajnala indicate ongoing milk and tea langars as well.
With 6.34 million female voters, candidates are making special efforts to attract them, such as offering free juice in Muktsar and setting up fast food stalls in Kapurthala. A senior politician from Ropar noted a significant increase in liquor distribution, with claims that daily shipments of 20 to 25 boxes were being sent to various villages.
However, in Jhaloor village of Barnala, residents have rejected liquor distribution. Gurdasapur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa pointed out that gangsters are actively involved in the panchayat polls, exerting control over candidates and requiring police protection during the nomination process.
Harchand Singh Barsat, general secretary of AAP, stated that the panchayat elections would be conducted fairly, asserting that voters are free to choose their preferred candidates without political interference.
Election Readiness:
1,001 hypersensitive booths have been identified, with the highest concentration of 179 in Amritsar district.
1.33 crore voters are set to participate.
19,110 polling booths will be established statewide.
96,000 staff members have been assigned to election duties.