Votes cast by deceased individuals submitted as evidence in rigging case

ISLAMABAD: In a startling development, evidence of votes cast by deceased individuals has been submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

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During a hearing on Pervez Elahi’s application concerning alleged rigging in the PP 32 by-election in Gujarat, he contended that widespread rigging occurred across the constituency.

Notably, at 18 polling stations, fewer than 10 per cent of women cast their votes, while at some stations, voter turnout exceeded 91 per cent. Alarmingly, 832 votes were purportedly cast by individuals who are either deceased or currently abroad.

Member Election Commission Ikramullah Khan questioned the validity of claims regarding overseas voters.

In response, the petitioner’s counsel stated that death certificates of the deceased voters were included with the petition. The counsel also claimed that votes were cast in closed rooms under police supervision.

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In light of these allegations, the ECP has issued a notice to Musa Elahi, the victorious candidate for PP 32 Gujarat, and has requested a detailed report from the returning officer within three days.

The case hearing has been adjourned until May 29. – INP