VADODARA: Tension prevailed during the Manjalpur by-election in Vadodara after workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress allegedly clashed outside the Panchsheel Vidyalaya polling station on polling day.
The confrontation briefly disrupted the peaceful atmosphere around the polling booth before police personnel stationed at the location intervened and brought the situation under control. Polling later resumed without any major interruption.
Verbal Altercation Escalates Into Scuffle
According to reports, the incident began with a heated verbal exchange between party workers stationed near the polling booth. The argument soon escalated into a physical confrontation, leading to chaos outside the voting centre. Eyewitnesses said workers from both political parties accused each other of attempting to influence voters near the polling station. The situation became tense as supporters gathered outside the premises.
Police Quickly Intervene
Police officers deployed for election duty immediately reached the spot and separated the rival groups before the confrontation could intensify further. Senior police officials appealed to political workers to maintain peace and strictly follow the Model Code of Conduct during the by-election. Authorities confirmed that polling inside the booth continued normally after the disturbance was brought under control.
Security Tightened Around Polling Booth for Manjalpur By-election
Following the incident, additional police personnel were deployed around Panchsheel Vidyalaya to prevent any further confrontation. Election officials also increased monitoring around sensitive polling locations in the constituency to ensure free and fair voting. Officials urged voters not to pay attention to rumours and to cast their votes peacefully.
Election Commission Monitoring Situation
Election authorities said they are monitoring the developments closely and collecting reports from local officials regarding the incident. If any violation of election rules or the Model Code of Conduct is established, appropriate legal action will be initiated against those responsible.
Voting Continues Peacefully Across Constituency
Apart from the isolated incident at Panchsheel Vidyalaya, polling across the Manjalpur Assembly constituency remained largely peaceful. Voters continued to visit polling stations throughout the day under the supervision of election officials and security personnel. Authorities expressed confidence that polling would conclude smoothly with adequate security arrangements in place.
Conclusion
The clash between BJP and Congress workers outside the Panchsheel Vidyalaya polling station briefly raised tensions during the Vadodara Manjalpur by-election. However, prompt intervention by police ensured the situation was quickly brought under control, allowing polling to continue peacefully. Election authorities continue to monitor the matter and have reiterated their commitment to conducting a free, fair, and peaceful election.
Also read, 9 Members of Vadodara’s Notorious Sindhi Gang Booked Under GUJSICTOC; Harry Sindhi Among Key Accused
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