Chandigarh, 12 November 2024: In the lead-up to the Gidderbaha Assembly byelections, the Election Commission has issued notices to BJP candidate Manpreet Singh Badal and Congress MP Raja Warring, husband of Congress candidate Amrita Warring, for alleged breaches of the Model Code of Conduct. Both politicians have been given 24 hours to respond to the commission’s directives.
The controversy surrounding Manpreet Badal emerged after a campaign speech in which he allegedly promised to secure Central Government jobs for attendees. During the event, Badal was reported saying that he had connections with the general manager of Punjab Roadways and could arrange railway jobs, noting that a Railway Minister would soon visit Gidderbaha. The remarks quickly spread on social media, sparking complaints that reached the Election Commission.
Badal later clarified his statements, asserting that he was referring to a training initiative designed to make local youths more employable rather than guaranteeing government employment. Despite this explanation, the comments drew sharp criticism from Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, who accused Badal of misleading voters during the campaign.
Meanwhile, Congress MP Raja Warring faced scrutiny for allegedly campaigning inside a mosque. The incident came to light after Warring posted a photo of his visit to the religious site on social media, which prompted a backlash from BJP leaders. They accused him of using the mosque for political purposes, violating the Model Code of Conduct. The post was subsequently altered, but the issue continued to escalate, leading the Election Commission to take notice.
The Election Commission has sought clarifications from both Manpreet Badal and Raja Warring, urging them to provide explanations within the given timeframe. As the byelections approach, these allegations have intensified the political rivalry, raising questions about adherence to electoral guidelines and campaign ethics.
