The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) issued a firm and clear call to the State Election Commission (SEC). Specifically, they demand that authorities conduct the upcoming panchayat and municipal elections in a free, fair, and peaceful manner across the state. This demand clearly underscores the party’s serious concern regarding the integrity of the electoral process at the grassroots level.
Local body elections are crucial because they directly empower the rural and urban populations. Therefore, the APCC insists that officials must hold these elections without any coercion or misuse of official power. The party seeks to ensure that authorities fully protect the fundamental democratic rights of the citizens during this important exercise.
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Rising Concerns Over Coercive Tactics
The Congress party’s demand comes amidst rising political tensions. It follows allegations of undue influence by the ruling party. Notably, the APCC strongly condemned a controversial statement a Minister from Arunachal Pradesh allegedly made. The Minister reportedly threatened to deny developmental schemes to panchayat segments where the ruling party’s candidates might lose.
The Congress labeled this Minister’s remarks as “blatant, unlawful, shocking, and undemocratic.” They argue that such statements are unconstitutional. Moreover, they feel the remarks insult the people. The party points out that government funds belong to the citizens, not to any political party. Threatening voters with the denial of development if they do not vote for the ruling party constitutes a direct assault on democratic principles. Clearly, the party views this as a corrupt practice under the relevant election laws.
Demand for SEC Intervention and Action
The APCC formally petitioned the State Election Commission. They urge the SEC to take immediate and strict action against the Minister involved. The party demands the Minister’s resignation and a public apology for misusing his official position to intimidate voters.
The Congress stressed that the Commission must promptly intervene. This intervention will uphold the integrity of the electoral process. It will protect voters from coercive political pressure. Hence, the APCC’s appeal centers on ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates. They insist on elections that are free from intimidation and genuinely reflect the people’s will.
The Importance of Fair Local Governance
Elections for Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and municipal bodies are vital for decentralized governance. They realize Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj (village self-rule). Fair elections ensure that development planning and execution genuinely reflect local needs and priorities.
The APCC’s insistence on Arunachal Congress Free Fair Polls also addresses the significant number of seats the ruling party won uncontested. While some wins may be legitimate, the opposition argues that the overall political climate should not deter other parties and independent candidates from filing nominations and freely contesting elections. Ensuring a transparent and non-coercive environment is the first step toward promoting healthy competition at the local level.
The Congress party is actively campaigning to regain lost ground in the state. Therefore, their vigorous push for fair elections signals their determination to hold the ruling dispensation accountable. They aim to protect the constitutional principles of democracy at every level of governance.
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