Farrukhabad, May 20: The Uttar Pradesh Police have apprehended a young voter following the circulation of a viral video on social media, purportedly showing him casting multiple votes in favor of a BJP candidate at a polling station. The accused, identified as Rajan Singh, was taken into custody late on Sunday after opposition leaders, including those from the Congress and Samajwadi Party, shared the video footage.
Get Latest Updates on Election 2024 Stay Updated with us.
In the two-minute clip, the voter is seen allegedly casting votes for BJP candidate Mukesh Rajput on the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) multiple times. Rajput is contesting from the Farrukhabad Lok Sabha constituency in Uttar Pradesh.
Also Read: Those who want strong PM with 56-inch chest, should vote for Narendra Modi: Amit Shah
Subsequent to the emergence of the video, an FIR was lodged at the Naya Gaon police station, initiated by Assistant Returning Officer Prateet Tripathi. The case has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and other relevant election laws, encompassing IPC Section 171F (election-related offenses) and IPC Section 419 (punishment for cheating by personation), along with sections of the Representation of the People's Act.
Also Read: 28 crorepati candidates fighting 3rd phase Lok Sabha candidates in Odisha
The Election Commission has taken cognizance of the incident and instructed authorities to take swift and decisive action. Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa stated, "Cognizance of the circulating video has been taken. Concerned District Election Officer has been directed to take prompt and effective action."
The Election Commission has also directed the suspension and commencement of disciplinary proceedings against all officials present at the polling booth during the alleged incident. This directive followed appeals from the Congress and Samajwadi Party, who shared the video on social media platforms and urged action from the EC.
Also Read: Prime Minister Modi leads roadshow in Puri ahead of Odisha Polls
"Dear Election Commission, do you see this? One person is voting eight times. It is time to wake up," wrote the Congress on social media, echoing the sentiments of Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, who also called for action from the EC.
