Councilors ‘pressurised, purchased’ to make Mattu Mayor: Congress

Srinagar, Nov 6: Congress party on Tuesday accused Peoples Conference’s (PC) Mayor candidate, Junaid AzimMatoo, of rigging.

Two candidates each were in fray for elections to the post of Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Congress party had fielded Ghulam Rasool Hajam for the post of Mayor and Sheikh Imran for the post of Deputy Mayor, while as PC had fielded Junaid AzimMatoo for the post of Mayor and Saleem Lone for the post of Deputy Mayor.

Matoo emerged winner.

President Congress party, G A Mir, said a “large chunk” of councilors was that of independents.

Mir said till Monday evening, his party had support of 45 councilors.

“Sixty-three independents were there, representing 61 institutions. Pressure was mounted on the councilors from different quarters including administration and police. Even councilors were purchased,” he said.

He claimed that cars were given to many councilors and pressure was also mounted from New Delhi.

“Our effort was sincere and political in nature. We were following the appeal of secular and likeminded people. We still have 16 councilors. I am happy that they didn’t succumb to pressure and adhered to the party orders. Only two left,” he said.

“Other than Congress, there was no major political party. Political parties fight elections on political commitments,” he added.