Boycott mars last phase of Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh’s Shajapur villages

In the final phase of Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh on Monday, a boycott emerged in select villages of Shajapur, citing developmental grievances. Residents of Polling Booth No. 65 in Gopipur village and Polling Booth No. 64 in Laudakhedi village abstained from voting.

 

Despite the presence of polling personnel, no votes were cast in these villages until noon, as depicted in a viral video of empty polling booths. Villagers congregated outside, vocalising their demands and highlighting the absence of benefits from the Narmada Project and deficient road connectivity.

 

While neighbouring villages have reaped rewards from these initiatives, Gopipur and Laudakhedi feel neglected. Frustration mounts due to inadequate roads hampering transportation and hindering access to education for children.

 

Efforts by the District Panchayat CEO to address concerns fell short as villagers remained resolute in their decision to abstain from voting until grievances were redressed. They reiterated that their vote hinges on tangible progress in development and infrastructure enhancements.