Synopsis
The Milkipur by-elections commenced at 7 AM today, with a voter turnout of 29.86% recorded by 11 AM, amidst allegations of intimidation by the opposition SP against the ruling BJP. Security measures are firmly in place to ensure a peaceful voting process.Key Takeaways
- Voting began at 7 AM in Milkipur.
- 29.86% turnout recorded by 11 AM.
- Major contest between BJP and SP.
- Allegations of voter intimidation by SP.
- Strong security presence at polling stations.
Lucknow, Feb 5 (NationPress) The by-elections for the Milkipur Assembly seat in Ayodhya commenced at 7 AM today, witnessing a moderate voter turnout in the initial hours. As per the Election Commission, the constituency has recorded a turnout of 29.86% by 11 AM.
The Milkipur seat has become a significant contest between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the main opposition Samajwadi Party (SP), especially following recent by-elections for nine seats that featured intense competition between the two factions.
The polling process has largely proceeded without incident, with security forces maintaining a strict watch over all polling locations.
In a recent social media post, the SP accused the administration of using 'intimidatory tactics' to scare voters.
Akhilesh Yadav expressed his concerns on X, indicating that they would escalate the matter to the election authority. He stated, “The Election Commission must take immediate action regarding reports that Ayodhya police are checking voter ID cards in Milkipur, involving senior police officials. This constitutes a democratic crime of indirectly influencing voters through fear. Those responsible should be removed and face punitive measures.”
Meanwhile, Ayodhya Inspector General of Police Praveen Kumar assured reporters that voting was proceeding smoothly at all sites, with magistrates and police officers actively patrolling the area.
“Paramilitary forces are overseeing the situation at key polling stations,” he added.
Just a day earlier, Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa stated that voting in the Milkipur by-elections would occur from 7 AM until 5 PM.
“No voter will be permitted to vote unless their name appears on the electoral list. They must present their voter ID or any other document sanctioned by the Election Commission of India (ECI),” he informed the media.
