The third and final phase of the Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) elections in Kullu district witnessed a brief disruption on Saturday after an error was detected in ballot papers at a polling station in Banjar development block.
The incident occurred in Manglore panchayat, where polling for the post of Block Development Council (BDC) member was temporarily suspended after voters and polling agents noticed that the names of candidates had been printed against each other’s election symbols on certain ballot papers.
Election officials immediately halted the voting process and conducted a detailed inspection. Two faulty ballot papers were identified and subsequently cancelled, following which polling resumed without further interruption.
Confirming the incident, Banjar Tehsildar Neeraj Sharma said the remaining ballot papers were found to be correct. He added that an inquiry had been initiated to ascertain responsibility for the printing error.
Despite the temporary setback, polling across the district remained largely peaceful and recorded an impressive turnout of 84.66 per cent. Of the 99,607 registered voters, 84,327 exercised their franchise, including 42,107 women voters.
Respect for tradition marks unique polling scene in Sainj Valley
A unique feature of the polling process was witnessed at Kandha polling station in Talara panchayat of Sainj Valley. In deference to an age-old local deity tradition that discourages the use of chairs and cots in certain areas, polling officials, including the presiding officer, conducted the entire voting process seated on the floor.
The gesture was appreciated by local residents, who said respect for traditional customs helped enhance public participation and enthusiasm for the democratic process. Among the development blocks, Banjar recorded the highest voter turnout at 87.55 per cent, followed by Naggar (86.60 per cent), Bhunter (84.85 per cent), Nirmand (84.67 per cent), Anni (82.19 per cent) and Kullu (81.76 per cent). Counting of votes for block committees and the Zila Parishad will be undertaken on May 31.
