Jubilee Hills Bypoll: Morning Polling Remains Sluggish Amid Cold Weather, Tension Erupts at Borabanda Booth

Polling in the high-stakes Jubilee Hills by-election began on a slow note on Tuesday, with chilly morning conditions likely contributing to the low voter turnout across several polling stations. While political parties had mobilised their workers early in the day, the queues at most booths remained sparse during the initial hours. Party activists from various constituencies were seen stationed near polling centres, monitoring the situation and encouraging voters to step out.

However, the otherwise calm morning was disrupted by a brief episode of tension at Booth No. 337 in the Borabanda area. BRS leaders alleged that Congress workers were violating election norms by campaigning inside the polling premises. According to the complaint, a group of Congress workers were seen wearing T-shirts carrying symbols and printed material resembling the party emblem, along with the serial number 2—markings that could be interpreted as campaign attempts.

BRS representatives accused the Congress workers of deliberately attempting to influence voters within the restricted zone, an act strictly prohibited by election laws. They immediately approached the police personnel deployed at the booth and lodged a formal complaint, demanding swift action against those involved.

The presence of ruling party legislators from outside the constituency near several polling centres also raised eyebrows, with opposing party members expressing concerns over potential pressure tactics. Election officials and the police are closely monitoring developments, ensuring that polling remains peaceful and compliant with rules.

As the day progresses, authorities expect voter turnout to pick up with rising temperatures and increased activity. The Election Commission has appealed to citizens to cast their votes without fear, emphasizing that strict action will be taken against any attempts to violate the Model Code of Conduct or disrupt the polling process.