PHAGWARA: Several BJP Leaders like Former Rajya Sabha Member Avinsh Rai Khanna, Former Union Minister Som Parkash , National Farmers Leader Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal and media penalize Parminder Mehta have strongly criticized the ongoing horse-trading of councilors in the context of the mayoral elections for Phagwara Municipal Corporation. In different statements released here today.
They accused senior leaders of major political parties of shamelessly indulging in buying and selling councilors, calling it a blatant murder of democracy.
They pointed out that the Municipal Corporation elections, held on December 21, 2024, reflected the will of the people of Phagwara, who decisively voted against turncoats. However, they expressed regret that the meeting scheduled for January 25 to elect the Mayor, Senior Deputy Mayor, and Deputy Mayor was postponed without any voting.
They alleged that political leaders were more focused on manipulating elected representatives rather than respecting the mandate of the people. “Councilors who indulge in party-switching and betray public trust are guilty in the eyes of the people. Party leaders must introspect if they are tarnishing democracy by turning councilors into commodities for bidding, ” he stated.
They further urged political parties to uphold the sanctity of democracy and ensure that elected representatives respect the voters’ mandate instead of prioritizing personal or party interests. They emphasized that such actions disillusion citizens and undermine democratic values.