Allegations of electoral misconduct surface in Arunachal, ex-CM Gegong Apang demands re-polling

Itanagar: Gegong Apang, the former chief minister and candidate of the Arunachal Democratic Party (ADP) from the 36-Nari Koyu constituency, has called for re-polling in several areas following reports of vote capturing and intimidation allegedly by members of the BJP.

"FIRs have been filed in these regions, citing instances of coercion, physical violence, and intimidation aimed at influencing voters and obstructing election officers from carrying out their duties. Such actions undermine the integrity of our electoral system and erode public trust in the democratic process. In light of these egregious violations, we strongly urge the relevant authorities to conduct re-polling to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to cast their vote without fear of violence or intimidation," a statement issued by Apang's campaign read.

Re-polling, he emphasized, is essential to uphold democratic principles and safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process.

Meanwhile, Rekar Koyu, the ADP's election agent for the Nari-Koyu constituency, lodged a complaint at the Nari police station alleging that a group of BJP workers entered polling stations in Kakki and Potte during voting hours and manipulated votes in favor of the BJP candidate, Tojir Kadu. Koyu further claimed that BJP workers, in collusion with presiding officers, intimidated ADP polling agents to prevent reporting of the incident.

In another complaint to the Nari police, Koyu alleged that BJP workers forcefully captured votes in favor of their party at polling stations in Tabiripo and Sipu within the constituency.

Additionally, Koyu submitted two complaints to the Additional Returning Officer of the Nari-Koyu constituency, detailing the incidents of vote capturing. He also appealed to the state chief electoral officer to order re-polling at the affected polling stations to ensure free and fair voting.