Festive scene on poll eve

Nitin Jain

Tribune News Service

Ambala, October 20

The first impression was of a festive scene, as about 100 men gathered outside the election office of a candidate from Ambala City on the eve of the Assembly elections. But a closer look made things clearer.

A langar was organised outside the office. Some men, after reportedly drinking liquor, were having food, while others were waiting for their share to arrive.

“They have already exhausted 10 cases of liquor. More are expected to arrive soon,” said tea vendor Harish, who had just returned from work and was expecting that someone would offer him a pint of beer.

A “pakorawala”, who had parked his “rehri” opposite the office which looked more like tavern, had a field day with sales showing a phenomenal increase.

He said he had purchased 100 more eggs considering the demand. “I am on the job since afternoon,” he said.

On inquiring that this time the authorities had enforced the rules strictly, the “pakorawala” quipped: “Kya kar lenge? Kaafi maal to pehle hi aa gaya hai. (What can they do? A lot of the stuff has already arrived).”

Candidates, who had been busy engaging senior leaders for their public meetings on Saturday evening, opted for door-to-door canvassing till Sunday midnight. Going around with folded hands and plastic smiles, tiredness could be clearly seen on their faces.

Heated discussions were a common phenomenon at almost all cigarette stalls and barber shops. Processions by supporters of candidates marked the poll eve here.