Chandigarh: Despite the tall claims made by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and state government, Lok Sabha polls in Punjab were marred by violence.
Incidents of violence were reported in at least three Lok Sabha constituencies of Punjab including Bathinda, Khadoor Sahib and Ferozepur.
According to sources, a Congress worker was allegedly murdered by unidentified people in Hardo Sarli village of Khadoor Sahib parliamentary constituency when the deceased was going to cast his ballot. [UPDATE – According to a press release issued on late evening of Sunday, the incident was not connected with the election. The press release reads: “incident occurred in village Sarali Kalan of PS Verowal , District Tarn Taran where Bunty S/o Charanjit Singh was killed by sharp edge weapon. This murder was committed by accused for personal enmity and has got no relation with Lok Sabha Election. FIR has been lodged against Sukha, Gora and Soni S/o Randhir Singh”. – (Updated on May 20, 2019 at 7:36 am Amritsar Time)]
Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal) workers were also allegedly attacked in Rampura Phul city of Bathinda, which left one person injured.
While four other people were injured in Kot Mohan area of Gurdaspur seat after a violent clash broke out between the two rival groups–Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).
Three SAD workers were injured in a firing incident that took place near a polling station in Talwandi Sabo area of Bathinda district.
Polling was stopped at this station after violence took place. The cause of the incident is yet to be ascertained, however, sources purportedly said that it had taken place between the Congress and SAD workers.
Violence was also reported in Kangad village of Faridkot Lok Sabha constituency when former cabinet minister Sikandar Singh Maluka’s vehicle was pelted with stones. However, he managed to escape unhurt.
ECI and Captain Amarinder Singh-led Congress government had earlier said that adequate security arrangements were made in the state ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Clashes were also reported in Hoshiarpur constituencies.
In Punjab, polling for all 13 constituencies was held today.