Violence
Violence has disrupted the polling process in various constituencies across Punjab, including Lahore, Ferozewala, and Zafarwal, where clashes between rival political factions resulted in casualties and arrests.
In Zafarwal’s PP-54 constituency, a fatal brawl broke out between workers of PML-N and PTI, leading to the death of a 60-year-old man who was hit on the head with a baton. As a consequence, polling was halted at the Kot Naju polling station.
The tragic incident sparked condemnation from Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari, who criticized the alleged involvement of PTI workers and urged Punjab Police to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal also visited the family of the deceased PML-N worker, promising justice and denouncing political violence.
Police arrested PTI workers from NA 119 Punjab! No0ne will be able to say that this is free & fair election! pic.twitter.com/d3Z4CWx3Oc
— Qazi Asif (@QMAAsif) April 21, 2024
Similar tensions flared in Lahore’s NA-119 constituency, where clashes occurred between supporters of the Sunni Ittehad Council and PML-N at Polling Station No. 171. Police intervened, arresting four individuals to restore order.
In Ferozewala’s PP-139 constituency, violence erupted outside Government High School Nizampura, resulting in three injuries from gunfire.
Law enforcement authorities promptly intervened, arresting two suspects and temporarily suspending polling at the affected station.
Elsewhere, clashes between political parties were reported in Sadiqabad and Kasur, further highlighting the volatile atmosphere surrounding the by-elections.
These incidents have raised concerns regarding the security and integrity of the electoral process, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring and enforcement of law and order.
Despite the challenges, polling for the by-elections in 21 constituencies across the country is underway. While some polling stations have witnessed a high voter turnout, others remain relatively quiet, reflecting the diverse engagement levels of voters across different areas.
The incidents of violence underscore the importance of ensuring a safe and fair electoral process for all citizens.
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