What has been claimed in the story is entirely possible. In fact, this is somewhat tame compared to what actually happens during elections. Much worse things usually happen, which will put any Indian to shame.
But there are a few doubts that are raised by this :
1) Usually the polling officers of panchayat elections are primary school teachers. I doubt any of them can write a report like this in a reporter like language. If its a translated story, rediff should come up with the name of the translator and the original writer.
2) What is the exact location of the place where this is taking place ? Why is this such a secret ?
3) What are the credentials of the writer. And why should we trust whatever he says without any semblence of proof.
This is not to say that the elections have been free and fair. Far from it.
But this actually amounts to fake journalism for which Rediff is famous.
