– Abdul Bari Masoud
New Delhi: A high-level delegation of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by its national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, met with Election Commission on Monday to raise serious concerns about alleged irregularities and violations in the ongoing Delhi elections. The delegation included Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, MPs Sanjay Singh and Raghav Chadha.
The delegation highlighted instances of irregularities, such as attempts to manipulate voter lists and blatant violations of Model Code of Conduct within New Delhi Assembly constituency. They urged the EC to take swift and decisive action to ensure a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. Kejriwal reiterated the party’s demand for immediate suspension and transfer of District Magistrate (DM) of New Delhi, who also serves as the constituency’s District Election Officer.
Speaking to the media, Kejriwal stated, “We informed the Election Commission about how, in the New Delhi Assembly constituency, applications have been filed using the addresses of BJP MPs and Ministers to create 30-40 votes each over the past 15-20 days.”
He added that the EC assured the delegation that no fraudulent votes would be allowed and that every suspicious vote would undergo a thorough investigation before any action is taken.
The delegation also raised concerns about alleged distribution of cash and goods by the BJP candidate in New Delhi Assembly constituency. Kejriwal claimed, “Yesterday, blankets were distributed in Kidwai Nagar, shoes in another colony, jackets elsewhere, and cash and glasses are also being handed out. However, the local DM’s report states that no such activities are occurring.”
He further alleged complicity on the part of the DM, saying, “When trucks loaded with blankets are arriving in broad daylight, and the entire area can see it, how is it possible that the DM remains unaware? This clearly indicates the DM’s involvement.”
Kejriwal expressed appreciation for the EC’s assurance that such activities would be halted, stating, “We thank the Election Commission for their prompt response and commitment to addressing these issues.”
He also announced that the EC had ordered the transfer of voter registration for AAP’s Patparganj candidate Avadh Ojha, allowing him to file his nomination in Delhi.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also addressed the media, emphasising that the EC had acknowledged the delegation’s concerns.
Mann remarked, “The BJP’s actions reveal their desperation. Registering 20-25 fake votes at a single address to target the New Delhi Assembly shows their frustration – they know they are destined to lose.”
