Shimla: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday accused the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh govt of attempting to manipulate the upcoming panchayati raj polls, alleging systematic efforts to delay and influence the electoral process. State BJP president Rajeev Bindal claimed the govt tried to postpone the elections for nearly two years, even moving the Supreme Court of India, and had now entered a “new phase of manipulation” after being directed by the apex court to hold the polls by May 31.He alleged that the reservation roster for panchayat elections was being changed arbitrarily, with panchayats repeatedly shifted between Scheduled Castes, unreserved and women categories. Calling it a “suitability model”, Rajeev Bindal said rules were being altered for political convenience rather than followed transparently.He added that such actions violate the provisions of Article 243D of the Constitution, which mandates a structured reservation system. The BJP leader also alleged that officials are working under political pressure, causing confusion among voters and aspirants.The state BJP president warned their party would raise the issue at all levels, including courts, accusing the Congress govt of undermining democratic principles. MSID:: 130140830 413 |
