Hyderabad, May 13: The ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Hyderabad took a contentious turn as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Madhavi Latha faced backlash for her actions at Polling Station No. 122 in Azampura, within the Malakpet assembly segment.
Latha found herself in hot water after allegedly trespassing into the polling station and requesting Muslim women voters to remove their burqas to reveal their identities. This incident, captured in a viral video circulating on social media, led to the registration of a case against her by the Hyderabad police.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation commissioner, Ronald Rose, who also serves as the returning officer for the Hyderabad LS constituency, directed the Malakpet police to take action against Latha. She has been charged under Sections 171C, 186, and 505(1)(c) of the Indian Penal Code, along with Section 132 of the Representation of the People Act.
Latha’s actions sparked outrage as she attempted to verify whether the appearance of the women voters matched the images on their Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC). However, it is important to note that candidates do not have the authority to check the identity of voters, including those wearing burqas. This responsibility falls upon polling officials.
Defending her actions, Latha claimed there were discrepancies in the voters’ list and expressed concerns over alleged irregularities in the polling process. She argued that every candidate has the right to verify the credentials of voters, particularly those wearing face masks or burqas.
The incident has intensified the electoral competition in Hyderabad, with Latha contesting against incumbent Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). However, AIMIM has refrained from commenting on the matter, opting instead to share official statements regarding the case.
As the controversy unfolds, the Election Commission of India is expected to address the issue and ensure the integrity of the electoral process. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding electoral protocols and respecting the rights of voters, regardless of their attire.
