Parties Influencing Voters With Drugs In Patiala

In spite of measures to put control over drug addiction in Punjab, the threat stays inherent in local politics. The forthcoming zila parishad and panchayat samiti polls are the same. The drug path is the easiest way to lure male voters, especially at a time when the voters know that the ruling party always has an edge in panchayat body elections.

However, instead of IMFL and other expensive contraband, top favourite during the assembly elections, cheaper variants are being supplied in these elections. Opium, poppy husk and country made liquor are the best bets to attract the villagers, who are now free after the harvest season. With the three available for Rs 100 or less for an individual, the budget suits the candidate’s pocket.

A visit to villages in Patiala is enough to see opium and poppy husk changing hands. After a hectic morning campaign schedule, evening is the best time to supply such freebies and get “assured” support. While it is tough for the Election Commission staff to reach every nook and corner, the local police is too unable to check such lapses.

“Usually no one asks for it (as passing on liquor and contraband is an open secret) and the candidates also do not directly pass it on. It is supplied through near and dear ones to persons who can mobilise support for the party”, said a former MLA, who is managing the zila parishad elections in a constituency for his party.

“We cannot imagine an election in rural areas without the use of drugs and liquor”, he said, adding free liquor parties are hosted with oral invites by candidates.

It is not difficult to identify drug addicts in villages. “During the election time, everyone gets his quota as per his liking. The only fact in consideration is the tight finances given the election standards”, claimed a candidate’s relative in Nabha. “Usually, it is the ruling party candidates who can afford to spend so much as they always have more chances to win”, he added.

Even the police records suggest that the inflow of drugs has increased with contraband worth over Rs 3 crore seized in and around Patiala during the past fortnight. Three days ago, the Shambhu police recovered two quintals of poppy husk and arrested four persons, while on May 8, 5 kg of poppy husk was seized from a tractor.

“We have issued instructions to all SSPs to ensure that drugs are not allowed anywhere and those found guilty should be arrested immediately,” claimed Patiala Zone IG Paramjit Singh Gill. Despite claims by the administration and the political parties, allurements for easy votes continue unabated. The only difference in this election is that Congress candidates have tight budgets and more checks to face as compared to their counterparts.