Nine candidates from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and two backed by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) were declared elected unopposed on Sunday for the 13-member Mamdot Nagar Panchayat, following the completion of the nomination process. The elections are scheduled for July 5, but the unopposed victories have already sparked controversy.
BJP nominations rejected, party cries foul
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleged that its candidates were deliberately disqualified. BJP leader Surinder Singh Sidhu stated that the party had fielded candidates in six wards, but all their nomination papers were rejected during scrutiny. He accused AAP and SAD of colluding to share seats, calling it a "friendly match" to deceive voters. "Earlier in Mudki, these parties were hand in glove and shared the seats. A similar strategy was adopted in Mamdot," Sidhu alleged.
Congress alleges intimidation and violence
Congress leader Ashu Bangar claimed that opposition candidates were prevented from filing their nominations. He alleged that some individuals were trying to promote gun culture in the area, which would not be tolerated. Bangar referenced a clash on June 25 between supporters of gangster-turned-politician Gurpreet Singh Sekhon, allegedly backed by the ruling AAP, and Congress workers, which left four people injured. Police later booked over 50 individuals in connection with the incident.
SAD denies understanding with AAP
SAD district president Joginder Singh Jindu rejected allegations of any pact with AAP. He pointed out that several SAD candidates also had their nominations rejected, which undermines claims of a pre-arranged seat-sharing arrangement. "The rejection of our candidates' papers shows there was no understanding between SAD and AAP," Jindu said.
Impact on local governance
With 11 of 13 seats already filled unopposed, the remaining two wards will go to polls on July 5. The outcome effectively gives AAP and SAD control over the civic body, while BJP and Congress are left without representation. The controversy highlights ongoing political tensions in Punjab's local elections, where allegations of backroom deals and administrative bias are common.
