Opposition Protests Erupt Over Rejection of 713 Nomination Papers in Punjab Civic Elections
Civic polls: 713 papers rejected, opposition protests erupt
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
The rejection of 713 nomination papers for urban civic body elections in Punjab has sparked protests by opposition parties, including Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). They allege political interference by the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which AAP officials deny, asserting that decisions were made independently and based on merit.
- 01A total of 10,809 nomination papers were filed, with 713 rejected during scrutiny.
- 02The highest number of rejected papers was in Batala municipal corporation, with 67 rejections.
- 03Opposition parties plan a bandh on May 20 from 8 am to 2 pm in response to the rejections.
- 04Former Union minister Vijay Sampla accused the AAP government of targeting opposition candidates.
- 05Protests occurred in multiple locations, including Barnala, Bathinda, and Malout, with roadblocks and sit-ins.
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In Punjab, the rejection of 713 nomination papers for the upcoming urban civic body elections has led to widespread protests from opposition parties, including the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). The opposition alleges that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has exerted political pressure to facilitate the victories of its candidates. AAP MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer refuted these claims, stating that election officials were acting independently and based on merit. The State Election Commission reported that out of 10,809 nominations, 713 were rejected, with significant numbers in various municipal corporations and councils. Notably, the Batala municipal corporation saw the highest rejection rate with 67 papers turned down. Protests intensified following the rejection of BJP candidate Rajni Rani's nomination in Barnala, prompting a joint demonstration by opposition leaders. The protests included roadblocks and sit-ins, with opposition parties announcing a bandh on May 20 to further voice their dissent against the alleged political interference.
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The rejection of nomination papers could significantly affect the political landscape in Punjab, limiting opposition representation in local governance.
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