New video surfaces of Chandigarh poll officer post Supreme Court criticism

PTC News Desk: In the ongoing controversy surrounding the Chandigarh mayoral election, a new video has surfaced on social media, revealing Presiding Officer Anil Masih signing ballot papers while making direct eye contact with a CCTV camera installed in the hall. This footage has raised concerns about the fairness of the January 30 elections, in which the BJP emerged victorious. Shared by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Swati Maliwal, the top-angle video adds another layer to the controversy.

The video gained attention shortly after the Supreme Court criticised Returning Officer Anil Masih, stating that it was evident he had defaced the ballot papers and should face prosecution. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud expressed his dismay, emphasizing that such actions amounted to the "murder" and "mockery" of democracy. The court vowed not to allow democracy to be compromised and asserted that fresh elections would be ordered if the integrity of the poll process was in doubt.

During the hearing, the court questioned the status of Anil Masih, whether he should be considered an officer or a fugitive. In response, the Supreme Court mandated the preservation of ballots and video footage from the poll proceedings. Anil Masih has been summoned for a personal appearance in the Chandigarh mayoral polls case during the next hearing scheduled for February 19.

Also Read: Sexual harassment case: Woman accuses hockey player Varun Kumar of sexual assault; FIR registered

Also Read: Uttarakhand Assembly Session: Uniform Civil Code to be tabled in assembly session today | IN POINTS

Justice Chandrachud pointed out Masih's actions in the video, stating, "It is obvious that he (the RO) has defaced the ballot papers. This man should be prosecuted. Look, why is he looking at the camera? Mr Solicitor (General), this is a mockery of democracy and murdering democracy, we are appalled. Is this the behavior of a returning officer."

The Supreme Court's directive came in response to AAP's challenge against a Punjab and Haryana High Court order denying interim relief and fresh mayoral polls in Chandigarh. The BJP secured victory in the Chandigarh mayoral polls on January 30, retaining all three posts and defeating the Congress-AAP alliance.

Also Read: Money laundering case: ED searches against Arvind Kejriwal's PS, persons linked to AAP

Also Read: Bribery scandal: Former Mohali DSP Raka Ghira convicted in bribery case; Rs 90L recovered

(Inputs from agencies)