Chandigarh: In a significant political showdown, Chandigarh braces for the mayoral election today, pitting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) against a formidable alliance of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress. This contest marks the first clash between the NDA and the INDIA bloc ahead of the general elections, amidst Nitish Kumar’s unexpected switch, adding intrigue to the political landscape.
To ensure a secure environment for the democratic process, an extensive police deployment of around 800 personnel, supplemented by additional forces from the paramilitary, has been arranged. A three-layer barricade fortifies the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation premises, emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order during this critical event.
Originally slated for January 18, the mayoral polls faced a postponement to February 6 due to the illness of presiding officer Anil Masih, amidst concerns over the prevailing law-and-order situation. However, this decision met with protests from Congress and AAP councillors, prompting a reappointment of Mr. Masih despite his apparent health issues.
The Chandigarh Press Club has advocated for media coverage of the voting process, seeking transparency despite initial denials of access to journalists.
With a combined total of 20 votes in the 35-member Municipal Corporation House, the AAP and Congress alliance present a formidable challenge to the BJP’s 15 votes. The magic number for victory stands at 19, setting the stage for a closely contested battle.
Legal hurdles have peppered the election process, with the Punjab and Haryana High Court directing the Chandigarh administration, in its January 24 order, to conduct the mayoral polls today. The court emphasized the imperative of free and fair elections, barring councillors from being accompanied by supporters or security personnel from other states.
All parties have adopted a cautious approach, keeping their councillors mobilized in the lead-up to polling day.
Strategically nominating candidates for various positions, the AAP-Congress alliance has put forth Kuldeep Kumar for the mayoral post, while the Congress is contesting for senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor positions.
With aspirations to end the BJP’s eight-year rule, the AAP-Congress alliance endeavors to usher in a new era, emphasizing their commitment to Chandigarh’s progress and inclusive governance.
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