Following 'illegalities', poll called off in 24 panchayats of Gidderbaha segment

The State Election Commission on Saturday cancelled the elections of 24 panchayats in 20 villages falling in the Gidderbaha Assembly segment in Muktsar district.

The commission has also summoned seven officers, including the Muktsar ADC (D) and Gidderbaha SDM.

The action was taken after the commission received numerous complaints of illegalities in the election process. As per an order issued by State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhuri, the fresh date of election in these villages would be announced after the October 15 poll.

The villages are Assa Buttar, Daddu Mohalla Mallan, Khirkianwala, Wara Kishanpura, Lohara (four panchayats), Buttar Shrinh, Kothe Hazure Wale, Kothe Dhaba, Kothe Kesar Singh wala, Bharu, Daula, Kothe Himmatpura, Bhunder, Lundewala, Smagh, Manian Wala, Sekha, Khunnan Khurd, Madhir (two panchayats) and Buttar Bakhua.

The Congress and the SAD had recently lodged protests in this regard and criticised the state government for its alleged inability in conducting the elections in a fair manner.

Several candidates have filed petitions in the high court as well.