Clash Erupts Between AAP and Congress During Punjab Panchayat Election Nominations

Former Zira MLA Kulbir Singh Zira sustained injuries during a violent clash between AAP and Congress workers on Tuesday as he headed to file nomination papers for the upcoming panchayat elections in Punjab. Police intervened using water cannons and firearm discharges to control the situation. Investigations continue.

Former Zira MLA Kulbir Singh Zira was injured during a clash between AAP and Congress workers on Tuesday while heading to file nomination papers for Punjab's panchayat elections, officials reported.

Police were compelled to fire several rounds in the air and deploy water cannons to disperse the crowd.

The altercation began as Kulbir, the district president of Congress, and his supporters approached the nomination centre. Both party factions pelted stones, resulting in a stone striking Kulbir's face. Outraged Congress workers subsequently protested against the AAP government.

Kulbir claimed police obstructed his group and accused the administration of siding with AAP workers. However, AAP MLA Naresh Kataria countered, alleging that Congress workers initiated the violence by carrying sticks and baseball bats.

Senior Superintendent of Police Saumya Mishra stated the entire incident was recorded and investigations were underway to determine the facts before lodging an FIR. The panchayat elections are scheduled for October 15, with key nomination dates spanning the first week of October.

(With inputs from agencies.)