Ahead of the panchayat elections in Arunachal Pradesh, the People’s Party of Arunachal (PPA) has accused the BJP of coercing its candidates into withdrawing their nominations in Tawang district. PPA spokespersons Urgen Dorjee and Jampa Tsering claimed that two uncontested PPA candidates withdrew their papers under pressure on the last filing day, calling the alleged actions “undemocratic and unconstitutional.” They also alleged the involvement of BJP workers and leaders close to Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
Rejecting the charges, BJP district in-charge Gumjum Haider said the candidates withdrew voluntarily and accused the PPA of misleading local youths. He urged residents to acknowledge the development and welfare schemes implemented by the BJP government. Haider added that it is normal in a democracy for leaders—including the CM and PM—to campaign for party candidates.
He further stated that the PPA’s attempt to stop the candidates from withdrawing was itself “undemocratic.”
