BARAMULLA, SEPT 30: The Returning Officer (RO) of Sopore, S A Raina, on Monday stated that no substantial evidence has yet been found regarding allegations of vote-buying during the election campaign. This follows reports of money being distributed to influence voters in the region.
Speaking to a local news agency, RO Sopore, who also serves as the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), confirmed that an investigation is underway. “We have taken cognizance of the incident, and a preliminary investigation is ongoing. So far, nothing concrete has been found,” Raina said.
He further clarified that the authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will act based on the findings of the investigation. “We will not allow such practices, and action will be taken once we have concrete evidence,” he added.
The allegations surfaced after a video circulated on social media, in which an elderly man claimed that a group of workers from the Awami Itehad Party (AIP) visited his home a few days ago and attempted to bribe him, which he refused. This has sparked a political controversy, with accusations flying between parties, each blaming the other for trying to unlawfully influence the electorate.
Authorities have assured the public that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness, and legal action will be pursued based on the outcome of the investigation.
