Milpitas(California) May 29,2026-The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) congratulates all winning candidates in the recently concluded civic elections in Punjab. The people have delivered their verdict, and in a democratic system, the public mandate must always be respected. Elections are considered the foundation of democracy, and every citizen has the right to participate freely and fearlessly in the democratic process.
However, NAPA expresses serious concern over the atmosphere under which these elections were conducted. Reports from various areas regarding fear, intimidation, political pressure, clashes, and insecurity have raised troubling questions about the overall democratic environment in Punjab. Democracy cannot flourish where voters, candidates, journalists, or opposition workers feel threatened or unsafe.
NAPA believes that elections should be conducted in a completely free, fair, transparent, and peaceful atmosphere. Unfortunately, many incidents during the election period created the impression that the spirit of democracy was weakened under the shadow of fear and insecurity. Such circumstances damage public trust in democratic institutions and weaken the confidence of ordinary citizens in the electoral system.
The association further stated that the real strength of democracy lies not only in voting but also in ensuring equal opportunity, freedom of expression, political tolerance, and protection of constitutional rights for every individual. Violence, misuse of power, intimidation, or suppression of dissent can never be justified in a healthy democracy.
NAPA urges the Punjab government, the State Election Commission, law enforcement agencies, and all political parties to seriously reflect on the concerns emerging from these elections. Strong measures must be taken to ensure that future elections are conducted in a truly democratic atmosphere where people can vote without fear, pressure, or intimidation.
NAPA also appeals to all political parties to rise above political rivalries and work towards strengthening democratic values, protecting civil liberties, and restoring public confidence in Punjab’s democratic institutions. Democracy must not merely survive in formality — it must also survive in spirit.