Chandigarh has become a challenging turf for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a recent development, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated an inquiry into alleged violations by the BJP in Chandigarh, particularly regarding the campaigning activities at religious sites. A senior Congress leader has complained, accusing BJP candidate Sanjay Tandon of exploiting religious sentiments to garner votes, a move deemed in violation of electoral laws.
The complaint highlights Tandon’s purported use of religious references openly to sway voters in favour of the BJP. It specifically points to the organisation of surrogate programs, particularly at places of worship, as a means to appeal to voters based on religious and caste affiliations. Such actions, if proven, could damage the campaign strategies of the BJP and could merit severe repercussions under electoral laws.
In response to the complaint, the Chandigarh Election Commission has forwarded an inquiry report to the Election Commission for further examination. As a result, a notice has been issued to local BJP chief Jatinder Malhotra and Tandon, prompting them to explain their conduct in light of the allegations.
Tandon, however, has denied holding any political events at places of worship, asserting that his visits to temples were solely for religious purposes. Despite his denial, the district election officer-cum-deputy commissioner, Vinay Pratap Singh, has forwarded the BJP’s response to the ECI for thorough scrutiny and potential action.
Also Read: AAP Collaborates With Congress To Form Coordination Committee
This development comes amid additional notices sent to the BJP for holding events in the city without proper permission. Recently, an event organised by Tandon at a Manimajra hotel was halted by the election department due to a lack of authorisation. Similarly, a gathering planned in Manimajra’s Pipliwala area earlier faced the same fate due to violations.
The election department is maintaining a strict vigilant stance, deploying social media monitoring teams to scrutinise party activities closely. Following the recent incident involving the BJP’s unauthorised event, another notice has been issued to the party, mandating an explanation within 48 hours.
Apart from BJP the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress Party have also come under scrutiny for violating the laws. The parties have 48 hours to respond to any findings or allegations brought against them.
