Punjab rural polls record lowest 48 percent turnout as violence erupts prompting re-polling at 16 booths

Punjab witnessed a historic low voter turnout of 48% in its recent rural Block Samiti and Zila Parishad elections. This turnout marks a significant decline from previous elections, where participation rates were much higher: 68% in 2008, 63% in 2013, and 58.1% in 2018.

Violence and Irregularities Prompt Re-Polling

The elections, held on a recent Sunday, were marred by incidents of violence and allegations of electoral misconduct. Issues reported included booth capturing and ballot paper snatching. In a rare occurrence, a presiding officer was reported to have fled with a ballot box.

The State Election Commission, addressing these issues, announced a re-poll at 16 booths in several districts, including Tarn Taran, Muktsar, Barnala, Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, and Amritsar. This re-polling is scheduled for December 16, with results to be announced on December 17. Measures will be taken to videograph the process.

Election Commissioner’s Statement

State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhari noted that polling was largely fair despite acknowledging that at least six individuals were injured in clashes. He dismissed the allegations of misconduct from political parties as unfounded, indicating that reports had been thoroughly examined and necessary actions taken.

Political Reactions and Allegations

• Partap Singh Bajwa, Leader of the Opposition, attributed the low turnout to voter intimidation and a growing disillusionment with the democratic process.
• Daljit Singh Cheema, a leader from the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), suggested that the results indicated rural anger towards the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
• Former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi claimed widespread “vote theft” occurred during the elections.

Opposition parties have accused the AAP of widespread electoral malpractice, including rigging and intimidation. Bajwa characterized the low participation as a collapse of public trust in the electoral process. Cheema emphasized the need for a judicial inquiry, condemning the situation as a “murder of democracy.”

AAP’s Response

Baltej Pannu from the AAP refuted the allegations, describing the elections as peaceful and attributing the re-polling to technical irregularities rather than misconduct.

Election Overview

These elections were critical, involving 22 Zila Parishads and 153 Panchayat Samitis, and attracting nearly 9,000 candidates. The outcomes are anticipated to significantly influence the political landscape in Punjab, especially as the next Vidhan Sabha elections approach in about 14 months.

For the AAP, this election serves as a mid-term assessment of its governance, while the results will undoubtedly impact the political strategies of the Congress, SAD, and BJP moving forward.