Ex-sarpanch faces FIR over liquor lure claim

Mohali: The Derabassi administration has booked three persons, including a former sarpanch, for allegedly trying to influence voters by distributing liquor and cold drinks during the municipal council elections held Tuesday.
Police said a tip-off indicated that individuals near a house in Isapur Colony, ward no. 16, were distributing liquor and beverages through a street vendor and also going door-to-door to lure voters.
Acting on the information, police conducted an inquiry and registered a case against three residents of the area — Charanjit Singh alias Baia, Hardit Singh alias Kala and Narinder Singh alias Rana, a former sarpanch.
Officials said the accused have been booked under Sections 123 and 135 of the Representation of the People Act, along with provisions of the Excise Act, for alleged poll inducement.
The administration said strict vigil was maintained to ensure free and fair polling and warned that attempts to influence voters would invite stringent legal action. Further investigation is under way.