Chandigarh Mayor Elections: AAP-Congress approach Punjab-Haryana HC, allege 'robbery' by BJP

Chandigarh Mayor Elections: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress have jointly approached the Punjab-Haryana High Court, raising apprehensions about the fairness of the recently concluded mayoral elections in Chandigarh. The matter is scheduled for a hearing on January 31.

Legal Challenge Amidst Controversy

Advocate Ferry Sofat, representing AAP and Congress, informed that a petition has been filed regarding the mayoral elections, which the court will review on Wednesday. The move comes in the wake of accusations against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of undermining the democratic process during the polls.

Alleged BJP 'Robbery' Sparks Outcry

Saurabh Bhardwaj, AAP leader and Delhi Minister, has accused the BJP of orchestrating a "blatant theft" in the Chandigarh mayoral polls. The election, described as the first direct contest between the BJP and the INDIA bloc (a coalition of AAP and Congress), was rescheduled by court order.

Punjab CM and AAP leader Bhagwant Mann said, "...All 16 on their side know how to vote and 8 on our side don't even know to vote!...Democracy was 'looted' today...Anil Masih is the Head of the BJP Minority Wing. They made their officer bearer…"

#WATCH | Chandigarh Mayor election | Punjab CM and AAP leader Bhagwant Mann says, "...All 16 on their side know how to vote and 8 on our side don't even know to vote!...Democracy was 'looted' today...Anil Masih is the Head of the BJP Minority Wing. They made their officer bearer… pic.twitter.com/OBvJLJHqvy

— ANI (@ANI) January 30, 2024

Mayoral Victory and BJP's Response

BJP's Manoj Sonkar secured victory in the mayoral elections, triggering chaos in the house. AAP and Congress councillors accused the BJP of malpractice, leading to a heated exchange. Responding to allegations, Manoj Sonkar dismissed them as a tactic by AAP and Congress to discredit their defeat.

Legal Background and High Court Intervention

The Punjab and Haryana High Court had earlier ordered the rescheduling of mayoral elections due to the presiding officer's illness. The court, on January 24, mandated the Chandigarh Police with security responsibilities for the polls. The legal move by AAP and Congress seeks scrutiny of the electoral process.

Claims of Unfair Delay by BJP

Before the rescheduled elections, AAP and Congress leaders claimed that the BJP intentionally delayed the polls sensing an unfavorable outcome. The joint Opposition candidate, supported by both AAP and Congress, faced off against the BJP's nominee in a keenly watched electoral contest.

Opposition Bloc's Strategy and Deal

In a rare collaboration, Congress and AAP, under the banner of the INDIA bloc, joined forces for the electoral battle. The AAP fielded a candidate for the mayoral post, while the Congress nominated candidates for the positions of senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor.

As legal proceedings unfold, the mayoral elections in Chandigarh remain mired in controversy, with the Opposition challenging the electoral process.