In an unusual development ahead of civic body elections scheduled for May 26, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had to make public announcements from gurdwaras at Lehra Mohabbat village in Bathinda to find candidates.
Despite its best effort, the party could field candidates in only four of the 11 wards.
According to villagers, announcements were made from gurdwaras by “granthis”, asking those willing to contest the elections on the AAP ticket to contact the party’s block president Surjit Singh and file their nominations. Confirming the development, Granthi Malkeet Singh Bhola said, “I was told to make the announcement for the AAP, seeking candidates at Lehra Mohabbat village.”
AAP’s Lehra Mohabbat block president Surjit said the party had fielded four candidates, while three others were being supported as Independents. “The remaining four seats have been left vacant as no one came forward,” he said.
Surjit blamed Bhucho AAP MLA Jagsir Singh for the situation. He alleged that despite Lehra Mohabbat having nagar panchayat status, development works in the village were allegedly put on the backburner.
“Our village has around 6,000 voters and a population of 11,000. The MLA wanted the village to be converted back into a gram panchayat, which villagers opposed. Residents were annoyed over this act and did not come forward to contest as AAP candidates,” he claimed. Surjit said no senior party leader had sought any clarification from him so far regarding the issue, but added that he would raise the matter with the top leadership.
Bhucho MLA Jagsir could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.
