In a concerning turn of events, Uttar Pradesh police have arrested a young voter after a video circulated on social media platforms purportedly showing him casting multiple votes in favor of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate during a polling session.
The Arrest
Identified as Rajan Singh, the accused was apprehended subsequent to the dissemination of a video by opposition leaders, including the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly known as Twitter). The video, approximately two minutes in duration, allegedly captures the individual repeatedly voting for a BJP candidate, Mukesh Rajput, via an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) at a polling booth. However, the authenticity of the video remains unverified by India Today.
Legal Ramifications and Action Taken
Upon discovery of the video, an FIR was filed at the Naya Gaon police station based on a complaint lodged by ARO Prateet Tripathi. The charges brought against the accused encompass various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and relevant election laws, including IPC Section 171F (election-related offenses) and IPC Section 419 (cheating by personation). Additionally, provisions of the Representation of the People Act pertaining to maintaining voting secrecy, election fraud, and other electoral offenses were invoked.
Election Commission’s Response
Promptly responding to the incident, the Election Commission directed concerned authorities to take immediate and effective measures. The Election Commission instructed the suspension and initiation of disciplinary proceedings against all officials present at the polling booth during the alleged misconduct.
Opposition Outcry
The Congress and the Samajwadi Party swiftly shared the video on social media platforms, urging the Election Commission of India (ECI) to intervene and take appropriate action.
Election Commission’s Intervention
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the Election Commission initiated measures to address the issue promptly. The arrest of the Uttar Pradesh man following the circulation of a video depicting him allegedly casting multiple votes for a BJP candidate underscores the significance of electoral integrity and the swift response of regulatory authorities to potential misconduct. As legal proceedings unfold, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes.
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