Punjab and Haryana High Court issues notice to Amritpal Singh on plea challenging his election

Justice Anil Kshetarpal of the Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a notice to Amritpal Singh – the head of “Waris Punjab De” and Member of Parliament from Khadoor Sahib – on a petition challenging his election. The petition, filed by Vikramjit Singh of Mohali district, contests the legality of his election on several grounds.

Among other things, the petitioner alleged that Amritpal Singh concealed critical details in the affidavit submitted with his nomination papers. Specific allegations included violations of election expenditure rules, such as failure to disclose expenses related to voter slips, public meetings, vehicles, social media, and paid news. Additionally, the petition accused Amritpal Singh of engaging in corrupt practices by seeking votes on religious grounds and using religious venues for campaign purposes.

The petitioner claimed that Amritpal Singh did not adequately disclose sources of funds and donations for his campaign, particularly alleging concerns over foreign funding.

In his petition placed before Justice Kshetarpal’s Bench, the petitioner argued that Amritpal Singh’s use of religious preachers for his campaign and his reliance on religious identity to garner votes constituted illegal and corrupt practices. His campaign was managed by his family while he was detained under the National Security Act in Dibrugarh Jail. His manifesto was reportedly released from a gurdwara, and his campaign included meetings and slogans at various religious sites.

The petition contends that Amritpal Singh’s actions not only undermine the sanctity of religious places but also violate the provisions of the Representation of the People Act. Consequently, he could directions to annul the Khadoor Sahib election, held on June 1 and declared on June 4, due to the alleged breaches.