Fake votes cast in Doon segment, allege villagers in Himachal

Allegations of fake voting for the post of pradhan emerged at Gurumajra gram panchayat of Doon Assembly segment where polling was held for the third phase of Panchayati Raj elections today.

Villagers raised slogans demanding justice as they alleged that fake votes were cast on behalf of some voters who were not present there.

“Some votes have been cast on proxy basis and, if the winning margin is less, we will demand a repoll,” alleged Vandana Parmar, a villager.

She further informed that “Jaipal, an aggrieved voter was told by poll officials that his vote had already been cast when he turned up to vote. How can his vote be cast when there is no indelible ink mark on his finger?” asked Vandana and other villagers who displayed his blank finger.

“A vote was also cast on behalf of Nikhil, who hails from Chanal Majra village but is studying in Canada. Yet another vote was cast on behalf of a woman studying in another state,” alleged villagers.

They added that despite giving a written complaint to the polling officer at 1 pm, it was not forwarded to the senior officials for action.

Villagers further alleged that vehicles bearing Haryana registration number were found in the area and its occupants were trying to influence voters while the police turned a blind eye.

Solan Deputy Commissioner Manmohan Sharma said the aggrieved persons should register their protest against proxy voting. He said he would look into the allegations.