Himachal Pradesh News
Congress Shows Strength in Nurpur MC Polls as 20 Candidates File Nominations Across 9 Wards
In a significant political development ahead of the Municipal Council (MC) elections, the Congress party displayed a strong show of unity and grassroots energy during the nomination filing process on Saturday. Led by former Nurpur MLA Ajay Mahajan, Congress-supported candidates took out a procession before submitting their nomination papers, signaling a confident start to their campaign.
In a significant political development ahead of the Municipal Council (MC) elections, the Congress party displayed a strong show of unity and grassroots energy during the nomination filing process on Saturday. Led by former Nurpur MLA Ajay Mahajan, Congress-supported candidates took out a procession before submitting their nomination papers, signaling a confident start to their campaign.
Candidates backed by Congress filed nominations from all nine wards, accompanied by enthusiastic party workers and supporters. The event turned into a visible demonstration of political strength, especially in a town where the BJP had dominated the previous civic elections.
Total 20 Candidates in the Fray
By the final day of nomination filing, a total of 20 candidates had entered the electoral contest. Both Congress and BJP have fielded nine candidates each, while two Independent candidates have also joined the race from Ward numbers 8 and 9, making the contest competitive and closely watched.
Congress Eyes Comeback, Claims ‘Wave of Change’
Speaking to the media, Ajay Mahajan expressed confidence in the party’s prospects, stating that there is a “strong wave” in favor of Congress. He highlighted public dissatisfaction with the outgoing Municipal Council, which was supported by the BJP, and claimed that residents are now looking for better governance and improved civic amenities.
Mahajan emphasized that Congress candidates, if elected, would focus on efficient service delivery and address long-standing local issues.
BJP Maintains Low-Key Nomination Strategy
In contrast, the BJP adopted a relatively low-profile approach during the nomination process. Candidates filed their papers in phases without major public events or senior leadership presence. On the final day, BJP nominees from Ward numbers 7, 8, and 9 submitted their papers.
The party’s campaign is being led by local MLA Ranbir Nikka, who has played a key role in selecting candidates for all nine wards.
Party Switching Adds Political Drama
Adding an interesting twist to the elections, both parties have inducted leaders from rival camps. The BJP has fielded Chirag Gupta, a former Congress supporter, from Ward number 8. He joined BJP in the presence of Kangra Lok Sabha MP Rajiv Bharadwaj.
Meanwhile, Congress has nominated Ashwani Daffa, who recently switched from BJP, from Ward number 9. His induction took place just a day before the nomination filing, in the presence of Ajay Mahajan.
High-Stakes Civic Battle Ahead
With visible political mobilization, cross-party defections, and equal representation from both major parties, the upcoming Nurpur MC elections are shaping up to be a high-stakes contest. While Congress is banking on public sentiment and unity, the BJP will aim to retain its influence through strategic candidate selection.
As the campaign intensifies, all eyes are now on how voters respond to these developments in the coming days.