Voters Turn Out in Large Numbers
The Tarn Taran Assembly bypoll in Punjab witnessed active voter participation on Sunday as people from across the constituency came out to cast their votes peacefully. Polling began at 7 AM under tight security and will continue till 6 PM. Voters were seen queueing up at several booths even before polling officially began, showing strong civic enthusiasm.
Reason Behind the Bypoll
The by-election was necessitated after the resignation of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Dr. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, who is currently serving as a cabinet minister in the Punjab government. The Election Commission announced the bypoll schedule earlier last month, with November 14 set as the date for counting of votes and results.
Main Contestants and Political Battle
The bypoll has turned into a triangular contest between Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).
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AAP has fielded Sukhjinder Singh, aiming to retain its hold in the region.
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Congress has placed its bet on Paramjit Singh, a local leader with a strong rural base.
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Shiromani Akali Dal has nominated Jaswinder Singh, who hopes to regain lost ground in the Majha region.
Observers say the Tarn Taran seat could serve as a litmus test for the popularity of the AAP government led by CM Bhagwant Mann.
Security and Election Arrangements
The district administration has deployed heavy security to ensure peaceful polling. Over 1200 police personnel, including paramilitary forces, have been stationed across 260 polling booths. Webcasting facilities have also been arranged in sensitive areas.
Election officials have confirmed that voter turnout is expected to cross 70%, reflecting a strong democratic spirit.
Public Sentiment and Issues
Local voters say the bypoll is not just about party politics but also about issues like drug abuse, unemployment, and development. Many residents expressed hope that the new MLA will bring real progress and address long-pending demands such as improved healthcare and better road connectivity.
Result Date and Counting Process
The votes will be counted on November 14, and the Election Commission will declare the official results the same day. The winning candidate will take oath before the winter session of the Punjab Assembly begins.
