Security has been tightened across Punjab’s border district of Tarn Taran as counting begins for the high-stakes Assembly bypoll, viewed as a crucial mood-check ahead of the 2027 state elections. The counting process started at 8 am on November 14 at Mai Bhago International College of Nursing in Piddi, where authorities have put in place a multi-layer security arrangement. Extra vigilance has been ordered near the Pakistan border, with BSF patrols significantly stepped up.
The November 11 by-election saw intense campaigning from all major political parties. The key contenders in this four-way fight include AAP’s Harmeet Singh Sandhu, BJP candidate Harjit Singh Sandhu, Congress leader Karanbir Singh Burj, and Shiromani Akali Dal’s Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa — who is currently leading as the first trends come in.
Adding further complexity to the contest is independent candidate Mandeep Singh, who is backed by hardline Sikh organisations and associated with jailed activist Sandeep Singh as well as MP Amritpal Singh’s group. His presence introduced a strong ideological angle to an already heated electoral battle.
The bypoll took place following the passing of AAP MLA Dr Kashmir Singh Sohal. According to Returning Officer Gurmeet Singh, counting is being held in two separate halls — one designated for EVM votes and the other for postal ballots. Each area is equipped with supervisors, assistants, micro-observers, and polling agents to ensure a fully transparent process.
