In a controversial move amidst the UP election count, the BJP has accused the Samajwadi Party of plotting unrest. Following a delegation meeting with the Election Commission, they submitted a memorandum expressing concerns that SP workers may incite a riot post a press conference by the SP president.
The BJP delegation, including state president Bhupendra Chaudhary, Keshav Maurya, Brajesh Pathak, Swatantra Dev Singh, and GPS Rathore, demanded action against the SP and Congress for allegedly provoking their activists, which could lead to riots during the vote counting.
Source: aajtak
Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, after meeting with EC officials, stated to a news agency, "We have petitioned the state's chief electoral officer to take action regarding SP's and Congress's attempts to disturb the peace through press conferences."
"Action must be taken against those inciting riots," insisted UP Deputy CM, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and fair vote count. He suggested that an investigation should be launched against provocateurs. However, the BJPs submitted memorandum lacked specific details about Akhilesh Yadav's statements that could have incited the workers.
Keshav Prasad Maurya accused the SP and Congress of spreading tension within the state post their press conference. He demanded immediate EC action stating SP leaders are speaking the language of rioters and emphasized the importance of a peaceful and unbiased count.
UP DGP Prashant Kumar assured tight security arrangements for count day. He detailed a three-tier security system, with CRPF deployed in the inner circle and extensive CCTV surveillance at counting centers. With Section 144 imposed throughout districts, unauthorized gatherings are prohibited, and no victory processions will be allowed. The counting will commence at 81 locations across UP from 8 AM.
During his press conference, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the central government led by BJP for worsening the national atmosphere. He claimed an increase in crimes against women, backward classes, Dalits, and tribals during BJP's tenure, urging workers to stay vigilant at counting centers.
Akhilesh Yadav further accused the government of devastating small businesses with initiatives like demonetization and alleged that electoral bonds have been a major scam under the BJP. Meanwhile, Congress has advised its workers to stay alert at the counting centers, keeping an eye out for any malpractice, instead of just watching the proceedings on television.
