High-Stakes Mayoral Elections Unfold
The Chandigarh Mayoral polls, initially deferred due to the sudden illness of presiding officer Anil Masih, are set to resume today. The postponement, just moments before the vote, led to protests by AAP and Congress members, accusing the BJP of orchestrating the delay.
Political Significance: BJP vs. INDIA Bloc
The elections carry political weight as they mark the first showdown between the INDIA bloc and BJP ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls later this year. The civic polls have become a testing ground for the political landscape.
Legal Developments and Revised Date
Initially, the deputy commissioner had announced February 6 as the rescheduled date, but the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the UT administration to hold the elections on January 30. The municipal corporation house, comprising 35 members, will witness simultaneous elections for the senior deputy and deputy mayor posts.
Live Updates: Key Moments
Polling Commences:
- Voting has commenced, with MP Kirron Kher set to cast the first vote. The total number of votes to be polled is 36, and the polling time is limited to one hour.
Demand for ‘NOTA’:
- A lone SAD councillor demanded the inclusion of the ‘NOTA’ option in the ballot papers, but the request was not accommodated, citing the absence of such provisions in the MC Act.
Presence of Party Councillors:
- AAP and Congress councillors are present, while some BJP councillors and the deputy commissioner are yet to arrive at the Assembly Hall.
Contestants and Parties:
- AAP and Congress have joined forces in the INDIA bloc, fielding Kuldeep Kumar Dhalor for the mayoral post against BJP’s Manoj Sonkar.
- For the senior deputy and deputy mayoral posts, the Congress has nominated Gurpreet Singh Gabi and Nirmala Devi, respectively, facing BJP’s Kuljeet Sandhu and Rajinder Sharma.
Security Measures: Vigilance Outside MC House
Security has been heightened outside the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation office, ensuring a secure environment for the polling process.
Strategic Movements by Parties
- Parties are treading cautiously as councillors are kept on the move. AAP has relocated councillors to undisclosed locations, and Congress councillors are strategically moving across Punjab.
- BJP councillors are maintaining a low profile while resting at home.
January 18 Election Deferment
The earlier deferral on January 18 was announced at 10:30 am, triggering accusations of political maneuvering by AAP and Congress. The opposition alleged that BJP councillors and MP Kirron Kher were aware of the deferment before the official announcement.
Presiding Officer Anil Masih
Anil Masih, previously nominated as presiding officer, fell ill, leading to the initial postponement. His health condition resulted in the deferral of the mayoral polls.
Conclusion
The Chandigarh Mayoral polls are unfolding amid heightened political tensions, marking a crucial battleground between the BJP and the emerging INDIA bloc. The outcome will not only determine local leadership but may also set the tone for broader political dynamics in the upcoming national elections. Stay tuned for further live updates and developments.
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