In the midst of the Model Code of Conduct ahead of the MC elections in Sultanpur Lodhi, proceedings against supporters of Independent MLA Rana Inder Pratap and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have triggered a major controversy.
The police at Sultanpur Lodhi police station took preventive action against seven persons associated with Rana Inder Pratap and five AAP workers on Saturday night amid a tense poll atmosphere.
Following the detention of a youth linked to the Rana group, his supporters staged a dharna outside the Sultanpur Lodhi police station on Sunday, demanding his release. Rana alleged that seven of his supporters were detained in a “one-sided” action. After bail was secured, the protest was lifted later in the evening.
The police said the detained persons had been released on bail, but preventive proceedings against members of both groups remain in force and further action would be taken in case of any attempt to disturb peace.
The row began late Saturday night near the AAP election office in Ward No. 8, near the railway station. According to the police, a commotion broke out when some youths, allegedly from the Rana group, reached the spot. After an outcry by women present, one youth climbed onto the roof of a nearby house. The police reached the spot and detained some individuals for questioning.
AAP urban president Rajeev Dhir and other leaders alleged attempts had been made to create disturbance in the area. Denying the allegations, Navneet Cheema of the Rana group demanded that CCTV footage be examined to ascertain the facts. MLA Rana Inder Pratap also reached the spot and had a heated exchange with police officials.
On Sunday, Rana, along with supporters, again gathered outside the police station demanding the release of those detained.
Rana claimed his supporters were held around 10 pm on Saturday to 6.30 pm on Sunday, alleging false and one-sided action. He said he had written to the Election Commission seeking action against the SHO.
SHO Harinder Singh said the police acted after receiving information about the situation turning serious. He added that preventive action was taken against members of both groups under relevant provisions of law.
SSP Kapurthala Gaurav Tura said preventive action under Sections 107 and 151 of the CrPC was taken against individuals from both sides on apprehension of breach of peace. The matter is under investigation.
