Tensions Flare in Punjab as Qadian Election Sparks Conflict

A physical altercation erupted during the Qadian Municipal Council presidential election in Punjab, escalating from a verbal dispute between rival groups. Police intervened to control the situation. Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa accused police of opposing his supporters and colluding with criminal elements. Investigations are ongoing.

During the Qadian Municipal Council presidential election in Punjab's Gurdaspur district, tensions boiled over into physical clashes between rival groups on Thursday. Initially a verbal spat, the confrontation escalated rapidly until police forces present at the scene intervened and restored order.

Punjab Assembly Leader of the Opposition and Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa spoke with reporters, alleging biased actions by the police against his supporters. According to Bajwa, three of his supporters faced police action, with two detained and one currently unaccounted for. He pointed out the altercation originated in Selabpur village, located 10 kilometers from the election site.

Bajwa further condemned the law enforcement's role in the state, claiming, "These are professional goons; everything across Punjab is running at the behest of gangs." He accused the police of not just failing to act but actively colluding with criminal factions.