Shimla, May 31
Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the biggest gainer in the Municipal Corporation elections held on party symbols in Himachal Pradesh, retaining Mandi Municipal Corporation and wresting control of both Dharamshala and Solan from the ruling Congress. Congress, however, managed to retain Palampur Municipal Corporation, its lone urban stronghold among the four civic bodies that went to polls.
The most significant setback for Congress came in Dharamshala Municipal Corporation in Kangra district. Out of 17 wards, the BJP won 11 seats, accounting for 64.71 per cent of the House. Congress could secure only five seats (29.41 per cent), while one Independent candidate (5.88 per cent) was elected. The result is being seen as a major political blow to the ruling party in the state’s largest district.
In Solan Municipal Corporation, the BJP captured power by winning 10 of the 17 wards, giving it 58.82 per cent representation in the civic body. Congress won six wards (35.29 per cent) and one Independent candidate (5.88 per cent) emerged victorious. The defeat was particularly embarrassing for Congress as both the sitting Mayor and Deputy Mayor lost their respective wards.
The BJP also retained Mandi Municipal Corporation with a commanding performance. Out of 13 wards, the party won 11 seats, translating into 84.62 per cent of the House strength. Congress and an Independent candidate won one seat each, securing 7.69 per cent representation each.
Congress found some relief in Palampur Municipal Corporation, where it successfully defended its turf. The party won 11 of the 15 wards, securing 73.33 per cent of the seats. BJP managed to win four wards, accounting for 26.67 per cent of the House. No Independent candidate was elected in Palampur.
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The results underline a strong BJP resurgence in urban Himachal Pradesh. While the saffron party strengthened its position by retaining Mandi and capturing Dharamshala and Solan, Congress was left with only Palampur, raising concerns within the ruling party over its urban electoral performance despite being in power in the state.
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