New Delhi, India – Prince Patel cancelled his vacation plans to cast his vote in Surat, India’s diamond hub in Gujarat, calling it his “referendum against the policy failures” of Prime Minister Modi’s government. However, when the election date arrived, there were no polling booths in Surat as the Election Commission had already declared the seat in favor of BJP.
Opposition candidates withdrawing, joining BJP, or alleging threats to their lives is a common occurrence in multiple constituencies, raising questions about the fairness of the political playing field. The pattern of withdrawal is seen as a ‘show of dominance’ by the ruling party, BJP.
In Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, opposition candidates have withdrawn nominations, leading to effectively uncontested elections. Candidates like Chauhan in Gandhinagar faced pressures to quit, fearing for their safety and families.
Concerns about fairness in India’s democratic process have been raised, with voters like Anuj in Indore opting for the NOTA option. The frustration of voters like Patel highlights the challenges faced by citizens in exercising their right to vote.
Despite allegations, the BJP denies any involvement in candidate withdrawals, maintaining that thousands of candidates are contesting the elections peacefully.