In a startling event in Patiala, during the municipal election nomination process, opposition candidates’ nomination papers were torn in the presence of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). The incident has drawn severe criticism from the Punjab & Haryana High Court, questioning if the government considers itself above the Constitution and law.
The High Court slammed the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab after a contempt petition was filed regarding the incident. It was reported that a candidate was prevented from filing nomination and his documents were destroyed. The court was presented with video evidence, clearly showing the SSP’s presence during the incident.
During a virtual court session attended by the DGP and the Chief Secretary at 2 PM, the High Court inquired if they had seen the video displaying blatant misuse of power. Both officials acknowledged having viewed the footage and assured swift action.
The Chief Secretary stated that an investigation into the officers’ conduct was underway. The High Court, dismayed by the violation occurring right in front of police officials, stressed that such blatant disregard for legal processes is intolerable. The officer involved will face action based on the investigation’s outcomes.
Expressing deep concern over the implications for democracy, the High Court remarked that denying individuals the right to participate in elections directly undermines democratic principles. If such practices persist, the court suggested that elections might as well be halted. This incident mirrored similar issues previously noted in Panchayat elections, emphasizing that the Constitution remains supreme.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the Punjab Advocate General was shown the video during the court proceedings. The AG committed to taking action in all cases where opposition candidates were barred from filing nominations.
