An independent candidate contesting the upcoming panchayat elections in Assam’s Morigaon district has filed a formal complaint alleging serious poll irregularities. The candidate submitted a written complaint to the office of the District Commissioner on April 15, urging immediate intervention to ensure free and fair elections. The candidate claimed that several violations of the Model Code of Conduct have taken place in the run-up to the elections, raising concerns about transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
According to the complainant, certain influential political figures in the area have allegedly misused administrative power to influence voters. The candidate pointed out that unauthorized vehicles with political symbols have been frequently seen near polling stations during restricted hours. He also alleged that government schemes were being selectively distributed among specific voters to gain political advantage, which he argued undermines the spirit of democracy.
The District Commissioner acknowledged receipt of the complaint and assured that an inquiry has been initiated. He confirmed that his office has forwarded the matter to the Election Commission for further action. He emphasized that strict monitoring would be implemented in sensitive polling areas, and that all candidates, regardless of party affiliation, must abide by the rules laid out for the election period.
The candidate also alleged that some polling officers appointed for the elections had ties with local political groups, raising questions about their impartiality. He urged the administration to replace such officials immediately to restore public confidence in the electoral process. He also called for increased deployment of security forces in vulnerable polling booths to prevent intimidation and tampering on election day.
Political analysts in Morigaon noted that the complaint highlights a broader concern about the influence of power and money in local-level politics. They argued that while panchayat elections are supposed to reflect grassroots democracy, the growing presence of partisan politics has led to increased tension and conflict in several districts, including Morigaon. They believe that independent candidates face an uphill battle when competing against candidates backed by established parties, who often have greater access to resources and administrative support.
The opposition parties have expressed solidarity with the independent candidate, saying that similar complaints have emerged from other districts as well. Leaders from regional parties have accused the ruling party of trying to suppress voices of dissent by manipulating the election machinery. They have demanded that the Election Commission increase surveillance and ensure that independent candidates are given equal opportunity to campaign and contest.
Meanwhile, the ruling party has dismissed the allegations as baseless. A senior party leader from Morigaon said that the opposition was attempting to create confusion among voters. He claimed that the ruling party had no need to manipulate the election process because of its strong grassroots presence and public support. He said that the complaint was a tactic to delay the polls and divert attention from the real issues.
Local residents in Morigaon have voiced mixed opinions about the complaint. Some believe that the issues raised deserve serious attention, especially in light of past incidents where irregularities were reported. Others view the complaint as a routine part of the election cycle, where allegations are often used as political tools. Many residents, however, agreed that strict monitoring and fair conduct are essential to uphold the democratic process.
The Election Commission has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, sources within the commission said that they are closely monitoring the situation and have asked for a detailed report from the Morigaon district administration. The commission has also reportedly instructed polling officials to intensify their vigilance and maintain neutrality throughout the process.
As the panchayat elections approach, the complaint from Morigaon underscores the challenges faced by independent candidates in ensuring a level playing field. With rising political tension and heightened public scrutiny, authorities now face increased pressure to uphold the credibility of the electoral process and guarantee that every voter’s voice is heard fairly and freely.
