New Delhi: In a shocking turn of events reminiscent of electoral malpractices in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, allegations of booth capturing have surfaced in Gujarat, shaking the foundations of democracy in the state. The son of a prominent BJP leader stands accused of orchestrating a flagrant violation of electoral integrity by capturing a booth and allegedly casting bogus votes under duress.Booth capturing streamed liveThe incident, which unfolded in the Dahod Lok Sabha constituency amidst otherwise peaceful voting across Gujarat, has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Video footage capturing the brazen act of booth capturing, purportedly orchestrated by the son of the BJP leader, has gone viral on social media platforms, sparking outrage and condemnation.Man identified as BJP leaders son Vijay BhabhorIn the heart of the controversy lies Parthampur village in Santrampur taluk of Mahisagar, where the BJP leaders son, identified as Vijay Bhabhor, reportedly seized control of the booth. In a daring display of disregard for the law, Bhabhor live-streamed the entire episode, showcasing the audacious act of booth capturing to the world.Bogus voting, flouting elections officialsAccording to reports, Vijay Bhabhor not only commandeered the electronic voting machine (EVM) but also allegedly engaged in bogus voting alongside accomplices, all while brazenly flouting the authority of election officials. Despite attempts to suppress the evidence by deleting the incriminating video from social media platforms, millions had already witnessed the alarming spectacle unfold in real-time.Son of BJP leader and BJP member Vijay Bhabhor hijacked the poll booth in Dahod, Gujarat, live-streamed the entire incident on social media. Later deleted it.According to the article below, it is alleged that he even abused the officials and allegedly did bogus voting with… pic.twitter.com/FdkB4unMEK— Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) May 8, 2024Detailed report sought on the incident In response to the grave allegations, the Election Commission has swiftly intervened, ordering an inquiry into the incident of booth capturing in Dahod. The Commission has summoned a detailed report from the District Collector, which will serve as the basis for further action. Meanwhile, local law enforcement authorities have detained two individuals in connection with the case, signaling a determination to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process.Integrity of electoral process in questionAmidst mounting scrutiny, Dr. Prabhaben Taviad, the Congress candidate for the Dahod seat, has lodged a formal complaint with the authorities, prompting an immediate investigation. With the electoral battle between BJP candidate Jashwantsinh Bhabhor and Congress contender Dr. Prabhaben Taviad hanging in the balance, the integrity of the electoral process in Gujarat faces a critical test.As the nation awaits the outcome of the inquiry and the Election Commission deliberates on its course of action, the specter of electoral misconduct casts a shadow over the democratic ideals that underpin the electoral process in Gujarat.
