Punjab: BJP accuses rival parties of obstructing poll campaign

In the midst of mounting protests from farmers against BJP candidates in Punjab, State Party Chief Sunil Jakhar urged the Chief Electoral Officer on Monday to intervene, citing alleged coercion leading to withdrawals from campaign activities. Jakhar raised concerns about potential collaboration between the ruling AAP and other parties, accusing them of obstructing BJP candidates’ campaigns.

The ongoing Lok Sabha campaign has seen BJP candidates and leaders encountering farmer protests, with demonstrators posing questions and displaying black flags to express dissatisfaction with unmet demands.

Presenting a memorandum to Punjab Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C, Jakhar, accompanied by party leaders Parminder Brar and Vineet Joshi, decried the failure of state authorities to ensure BJP candidates’ campaign rights. He warned that without equal campaign opportunities, the electoral process would be compromised.

Jakhar emphasized the BJP’s commitment to farmers’ rights through dialogue but cautioned against unchecked protests forcing withdrawals, potentially leading to violence. He highlighted the risk of anti-social elements exploiting the situation, undermining the fairness of elections.

Jakhar urged electoral authorities to thwart the alleged conspiracy against the BJP, citing disruptions and denial of campaign rights. He pointed to incidents like the recent death of a farmer during a BJP candidate’s campaign in Patiala as indicative of deteriorating law and order under the AAP government.

Jakhar accused rival parties, including AAP, SAD, and Congress, of orchestrating disruptions to impede BJP’s rising influence in Punjab. He called for accountability from the state’s top officials, urging swift action to safeguard BJP candidates and uphold the electoral process.Expressing faith in the electoral system, Jakhar called on the Chief Electoral Officer to intervene urgently to address the BJP’s concerns and ensure a fair campaign environment.