Panthers Party Leader Harsh Dev Singh Approaches J&K High Court Challenging BJP's Chenani Win, Alleges Corrupt Electoral Practises
LIVELAW NEWS NETWORK
30 Nov 2024 5:13 PM IST
J&K High Court Issues Notice On Plea Challenging BJP’s Poll Victory In Chennai Over Allegations Of Corrupt Electoral Practises
Following the recent Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, former Education Minister and Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) leader Harsh Dev Singh has filed a petition challenging the election of BJP's Balwant Singh Mankotia from the Chenani constituency.
The petition, filed before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, alleges large-scale corrupt practices, undue influence, and the misuse of religious sentiments to sway voters.
The plea filed on November 28, seeks to annul Mankotia's election and declare Singh the duly elected candidate. Justice Rajnesh Oswal, presiding over the matter, issued notices to Mankotia, the Election Commission of India (ECI), the Chief Electoral Officer, and the Jammu and Kashmir government, among others.
Allegations of Corrupt Practices:
Singh, who lost by a margin of 15,611 votes, contends that Mankotia and his supporters engaged in bribery on an unprecedented scale, distributing cash, liquor, and various goods including sarees, suits, and household items. His counsel Advocate Aseem Sawhney further alleged that misleading propaganda and religious sentiments were employed to influence voters.
Several voters have reportedly given interviews corroborating these claims, stating they were offered money and goods to secure their votes, he submitted. He further argued that such practices have tarnished the integrity of the electoral process, calling for immediate judicial intervention.
Noting that a prima facie case for issuing notices had been made out Justice Oswal directed that all necessary steps be taken to notify the respondents within a week.
The matter has been scheduled for March 11, 2025 for further proceedings.
Case Title: Harsh Dev Singh Vs UT Of J&K
