Chaos Erupts During Panchayat Formation in Assam's Mangaldoi

A tense situation unfolded in Nagarbahi Gaon Panchayat in Assam's Mangaldoi as conflict erupted during the third day of the Panchayat formation process on Thursday. The rift began with five key members splitting into two opposing groups, leading to mounting friction over the selection of the Panchayat president.

To resolve the deadlock, a secret ballot was conducted, resulting in the election of Biswajyoti Hazarika as Panchayat President with six votes. However, controversy quickly followed. Supporters of rival candidate Jumiara Begum alleged irregularities in the election process, claiming that both the voting and the vote counting were done improperly and without transparency.

The situation turned chaotic when a woman, later identified as the daughter of Jumiara Begum, was temporarily detained by the police after allegedly misbehaving with an officer during the unrest. The woman’s father, in a shocking moment witnessed by many, beats her on the spot for her actions. Police confirmed that only the father and his wife were involved in the incident, with no outsiders participating in the altercation.

Jumiara Begum’s husband voiced his dissatisfaction, stating, “The election was not held properly. The voting, as well as the counting, was done secretly.”

While Biswajyoti Hazarika has officially been declared president, the controversy surrounding the voting process has left many residents dissatisfied, and the Panchayat’s legitimacy continues to be questioned by a section of the community.

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