Chandigarh, May 22
Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa today strongly condemned the threatening statements made by AAP MLA Kulwant Singh Bazigar during the campaigning for the ongoing civic body elections in Shutrana, stating that such remarks expose the “true face” of the Aam Aadmi Party and pose a direct threat to democracy and free elections in Punjab.
Bajwa said that the politics of “Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed,” once openly advocated by senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia, is now being implemented in toto in Punjab through intimidation, coercion and misuse of state machinery. He alleged that the MLA had reportedly threatened to “lock the doors of polling booths” and ensure the victory of AAP candidates through pressure and fear if people did not vote in their favour.
Calling the statements “deeply objectionable and alarming,” Bajwa said such threats create fear among voters, opposition candidates and polling personnel, thereby undermining the sanctity of the democratic process. He asserted that democracy cannot function under fear, intimidation and abuse of power.
Bajwa has written to the State Election Commission seeking immediate intervention and strict action in the matter. In his letter, he demanded that the Commission ensure completely free, fair and transparent civic body elections in Shutrana by deploying adequate police force and independent observers at sensitive polling stations.
Bajwa further urged the Commission to take strict action against any attempt to influence voters through threats or coercion. Bajwa also demanded live telecast and proper recording of both voting and counting processes, with the footage being made publicly available through the official platforms of the State Election Commission to ensure transparency and restore public confidence. “The people of Punjab deserve elections decided by the free will of voters, not through fear and intimidation,” Bajwa said.
