BJP MP Chugh Slams AAP Government After SC Quashes Elections in 50 Punjab Wards
BJP MP cites alleged nomination-stage irregularities in Patiala and Moga, seeking accountability from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
CHANDIGARH, Oct 8: BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Chugh on Thursday criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab after the Supreme Court set aside elections in 50 municipal wards and directed fresh polling, citing serious concerns over the nomination process.
The affected wards include 28 in Patiala and 22 in Moga. The court’s decision followed a fact-finding commission’s findings of widespread obstruction during nominations, including allegations that nomination papers were snatched, torn or destroyed and that candidates faced threats, detention and physical assaults.
The commission, headed by retired Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Justice Nirmaljit Kaur, examined complaints concerning the electoral process and documented serious irregularities. The findings were considered by the Supreme Court while ordering fresh elections.
Chugh said the developments raised concerns about democratic governance in Punjab, pointing out that AAP had entered politics promising Swaraj, transparency and a departure from traditional political practices.
He alleged that opposition candidates had been prevented from submitting their nomination papers and subjected to intimidation and violence. Holding the state government accountable, he questioned Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over the circumstances surrounding the alleged interference in the electoral process.
Chugh also referred to the safeguards directed by the Supreme Court for the fresh polls, arguing that the measures highlighted the need for independent oversight to protect candidates’ constitutional rights.
He said the responsibility for ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections rested with the state government, along with maintaining law and order.
The BJP leader described the issue as one of political and moral accountability for the Mann-led administration. He also questioned AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal’s response to the findings, alleging that the party’s position on democracy and constitutional values warranted scrutiny in light of the developments in Punjab.
