RAJOURI: The Returning Officer Thanamandi refuted the allegations raised by Independent Candidate Muzaffar Iqbal Khan regarding booth capturing, calling them baseless and unsupported by any factual evidence. The polling process was transparent and all procedures were followed as per established norms. Polling agents were present at the start of polling and voters were properly identified by officials before casting their votes.
The same complaint was raised by Independent Candidate from AC-Thanamandi, Muzaffar Iqbal Khan to the observer during the scrutiny of election documents. The Observer, Tikam Chand Bohra, thoroughly reviewed the complaint and conducted a detailed cross-checking process. This involved examining Micro Observer reports and cross-verifying key documents, including Form 17C and the ASD (Absentee, Shifted and Dead) list.
The scrutiny conducted on P+1 day, in the presence of contesting candidates and their representatives, revealed no discrepancies or adverse findings in the polling process. The ASD list and Form 17C were cross-checked, and everything was found in order.
As for the claim of bogus voting at Polling Station No. 124 Chowakian (C), the list of absentee, deceased, and out-of-state voters submitted by Muzaffar Iqbal Khan was found to be inaccurate. Individuals he listed as deceased, such as Rubina Koser (Serial No. 327) and Kulsum Begum (Serial No. 704), were confirmed to be alive, and Zabir Ahmed (Serial No. 236) is not listed on the electoral roll.
Allegations that some voters were out of the country or state were also refuted by local sources, confirming that individuals like Mohammad Kabir (Serial No. 237), Irfan Ahmed (Serial No. 254), Aurangzeb (Serial No. 341), and Liaquat Ali (Serial No. 158) were present at their polling stations on the day of voting. Many voters, including those studying or working outside the district, state, or even country, returned home to participate in the election, which was held after a gap of several years.
Based on these examinations, it was confirmed that no irregularities, including booth capturing, took place at the polling stations. Law enforcement officials were on duty throughout polling day and maintained strict vigilance to ensure smooth conduct at the polling stations.
Both Police Observer Dr. Vishnu Khant and General Observer Tikam Chand Bohra visited the majority of polling stations in Tehsil Darhal, including those where the allegations were raised, and found no signs of unlawful activities. These stations were identified as critical, and additional security measures were implemented, involving the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
In conclusion, all claims raised by Muzaffar Iqbal Khan are without merit. The polling process was conducted with transparency and fairness, and no instances of booth capturing or irregularities were found. The enquiry, observer reports and official documents all validate the integrity of the polling process.
