9 May 2024: In a concerning incident during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, a man has been detained for suspected bogus voting after he live-streamed from inside a polling booth in the Dahod Lok Sabha constituency of Gujarat. Identified as Vijay Bhabhor, the individual’s actions have sparked controversy and accusations from the Congress party, alleging his connection to a local BJP leader.
The incident unfolded at a polling booth in Parthampur, Mahisagar district, under the Dahod parliamentary constituency. The video, initially relayed on Instagram, captured Bhabhor allegedly engaging in bogus voting activities, including casting votes on behalf of two other electors. Despite deleting the video following criticism, it had already circulated widely on social media platforms.
Mahisagar Superintendent of Police, Jaydeepsinh Jadeja, confirmed the detention of Bhabhor and another individual, emphasizing that action is being taken under the Representative of the People Act for bogus voting. According to reports, Bhabhor entered the polling booth at 5:49 p.m. and exited by 5:54 p.m., during which time he broadcasted live on Instagram and purportedly engaged in fraudulent voting practices.
The Congress party has strongly condemned the incident, with spokesperson Manish Doshi asserting that it constitutes an insult to democracy. They have demanded repolling at booth number 220 in Parthampur and accused Bhabhor of manipulating the electoral process. Allegations of booth capturing and intimidation of poll officials have further intensified the controversy surrounding the incident.
Prabha Taviad, the Congress candidate in the constituency, is contesting against incumbent MP Jasvantsinh Bhabhor. The Congress’s claims of Bhabhor’s affiliation with the BJP add another layer of political complexity to the situation, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
As the investigation continues, authorities are under pressure to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The incident underscores the importance of safeguarding democratic principles and upholding the sanctity of elections.
