Watch : Manipur Voters Allegedly Made To Bow Down and Swear Before BJP Flag

 
In poll-bound Manipur, an unorthodox video of an alleged violation of election mode of conduct has surfaced online. A video where a group of Manipuri women were seen kneeling before BJP flags and giving what appears to be an oath of allegiance to a BJP candidate has made rounds in Manipuri social media circles and is creating many conversations. Several netizens including high profile social media handles such as Manipur's Congress  MLA Candidate Dr Lamtinthang Haokip's Facebook page have shared the video and expressed their opinions about it. Dr Lamtinthang Haokip's Facebook page mentioned that the women were being "intimidated" to bow down and swear that they will vote for BJP current MLA and candidate Paonam Brojen who would be contesting from Wangjing Tentha Assembly Constituency. 

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Helpless women voters are being intimidated to bow down and swear infront of BJP flag, threatening them to promise themselves that they'll vote Paonam Brojen, BJP Candidate from Wangjing Tentha Assembly Constituency else 'bad luck' should happen to them. This is outright violation of fundamental rights and model code of conduct. I request the Election Commission of India and Chief Electoral Officer, Manipur to act against the perpetrators and ensure free and fair election in the upcoming state assembly election..."
The page quoted. 


In the video, a group of women were seen taking turns in what appeared to be an oath-taking ceremony. The participants kneeled in front of two BJP flags laid on the ground and made solemn vows that they would be voting for the party and Paonam Brojen while being given instructions by a woman who was off-camera. They were instructed to swear on their family and that misfortunes and hardship will befall them should they break their vows. 

You can watch the video here with a rough translation by The Mizos team : 

( video from Dr.Lamtinthang Facebook Page) 

Manipur is heading to poll from 27 February to 3 March 2022 for its 60 membered Legislative Assembly. The result is scheduled to be announced on 10 March 2022. BJP Manipur has not issued any official statement on the recent video. 

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