Probe misuse of power by Cong: SAD-BJP to Guv

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 11

A SAD-BJP delegation today requested Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore to direct the formation of a judicial panel that would inquire into a “nexus among the ruling party, the administration and election observers who furthered the cause of the Congress ahead of the civic body elections”.

The delegation, which was led by SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal and state BJP chief Vijay Sampla, said this nexus had conspired to harass SAD-BJP candidates at every stage of the election process, including denying them no-objection certificates and refusing to accept their nomination papers.

The delegation members told the Governor that they were approaching him because representations to the State Election Commission did not bear fruit and elections were not countermanded at four places which witnessed violence, including firing at Akali workers.

Sukhbir also urged the Governor to direct the Congress to requisition paramilitary forces for the forthcoming elections. He said there was no possibility of a free and fair elections in the present circumstances. “An atmosphere of fear has been created in the minds of people and there is likelihood of mass-scale rigging and violence against SAD-BJP workers. In such a situation, only paramilitary forces can ensure conduct of free and fair elections,” he added.

The delegation also urged the Governor to seek an explanation from the state government as to “why state Congress chief Sunil Jakhar is issuing statements on behalf of the police”.