Voting was disrupted as rival groups clash at Sonari housing society polls
Key Points:
- Supreme Court orders independent election outside society premises
- Scuffle breaks out between Team Parivartan volunteers and voters
- 11 candidates compete for director positions with 1595 voters deciding
JAMSHEDPUR – The Adarsh Grah Nirman Swavlambi Society election in Sonari witnessed major disruptions as rival factions clashed over alleged fraudulent voting practices.
Team Parivartan emerged victorious in the contentious election. However, chaos erupted when several voters attempted to enter the polling station. Team Parivartan volunteers tried blocking their entry. This led to physical altercations between both sides.
Administrative officials and police intervened immediately to restore order. The disturbances continued intermittently as more voters arrived throughout the day.
The Supreme Court had ordered the district administration to conduct elections outside society premises. This marked the first time voting occurred away from the controversial society’s compound. Meanwhile, eleven candidates contested for director positions. A total of 1595 registered voters held the power to decide their fate.
Voting commenced under tight security arrangements in the morning. Ten polling booths were set up at Bharat Sevashram Sangh Pranav World School in Sonari. The polling process was scheduled until 3:00 PM. Counting of votes began immediately after voting concluded.
The election primarily featured a contest between two major groups. Y.N. Yadav represents the society’s founding faction. On the other hand, Dhananjay De leads Team Parivartan. This election holds special significance due to its legal journey.
Dhananjay De had approached various courts seeking independent elections. He first petitioned the cooperation department board. Subsequently, he moved the High Court. Finally, he knocked on the Supreme Court’s doors demanding fair elections.
The apex court accepted De’s petition and issued orders. The court directed the East Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner to ensure free and fair elections. This judicial intervention transformed the entire electoral process.
Security arrangements were extensive for the polling day. A large number of police personnel were deployed across the venue. Additionally, numerous administrative officers supervised the proceedings.
An Additional District Collector led the administrative team. Around twelve officers worked alongside multiple magistrates. Their primary objective was ensuring peaceful completion of the electoral process.
The society has faced multiple controversies in recent years. Legal disputes have surrounded its management and operations. However, the Supreme Court’s intervention brought hope for transparent governance.
