BJP workers have leveled significant accusations against both the Election Commission and police authorities, alleging that they are operating under duress, particularly within the Belgaum Lok Sabha constituency. They claim that despite their efforts, officials failed to appropriately address instances of voter bribery in Shahapur and Ankalagi, prompting a protest led by MLA Abhay Patil and former MLC Mahantesh Kavatagimath at the Shahapur police station until late Saturday night.
MLA Abhay Patil expressed his disappointment over the police’s decision to release the accused individuals despite being caught red-handed by BJP workers and handed over to them.
City Police Commissioner Lada Martin Marbaniang stated that despite the BJP leaders and workers staging a dharna, no official complaint has been lodged by them. However, he mentioned that they have initiated a suo-motu investigation into the allegations.
On Saturday, a comparable incident occurred in Ankalagi town, where BJP workers apprehended individuals suspected of distributing money and turned them over to the police. Local BJP representatives claimed that approximately 30 individuals from Bhadravati had been in Ankalagi for several days, allegedly distributing money to voters on behalf of the Congress party. The BJP workers asserted that the Congress was distributing Rs 25 lakh.
Local Congress leader Mahantesh Kadadi claimed that approximately 40 individuals associated with the BJP, purportedly supporters of MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi, assaulted Congress workers and hurled stones at them during their campaign in the town. He stated that the police and flying squad arrived promptly and rescued the Congress workers. Kadadi further alleged that BJP individuals vandalized the residence where the Congress workers had congregated, stealing money and valuables. He mentioned that no money was discovered at the site as alleged.
District election officer Nitesh Patil stated that Rs 1.7 lakh in cash was found at the location where the incident occurred. Regarding the assault, complaints have been lodged by both parties at the Ankalagi police station.
