Festive scene on poll eve

ambala: It was a festive scene with over a hundred men lounging outside the election office of a candidate from the Ambala Lok Sabha constituency here late on the eve of the polling day here. A ‘langar’ (community kitchen) was in progress as some of those who had taken liquor were having food, while others were waiting for their share to arrive.

“They have already exhausted 10 cases of liquor and more are expected to arrive soon,” said a tea vendor, Harish, who had just returned from work and was expecting that someone would offer him a pint of the brew.

A ‘pakora wallah’, who had parked his ‘rehri’ just opposite the office, which was more looking like ‘ahata’ (tavern), had a field day with the sales showing a phenomenal increase. He disclosed that he had purchased hundred extra eggs to sell and “I am on the job since afternoon”. On inquiring that this time the authorities had enforced the rules strictly, Kalu quipped: “Kya kar lenge, kafi maal to pehle hi aa gaya hai.”

Processions by supporters

Processions by supporters of candidates marked the poll eve here on Saturday evening. After making last-minute bids to woo voters during the day, the candidates heaved a sigh of relief as their fate hanged in balance amidst high expectations. —TNS