Breaking News: Surinder Chauhan Elected as Mayor of Shimla; Uma Kaushal Named Deputy Mayor

Himachalscape bureau Published: May 15, 2023 | Updated: May 15, 2023 3 minutes read

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Breaking News: Surinder Chauhan Elected as Mayor of Shimla; Uma Kaushal named Deputy Mayor

Shimla, May 15

After a week of anticipation and deliberation, the Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC) has announced its newly elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Surinder Chauhan, councillor representing Chotta Shimla ward, has been chosen as the Mayor of Shimla, while Uma Kaushal, a prominent figure from Tuttikandi Ward, has been elected as the Deputy Mayor.

The election was unanimous as there are reports that no voting took place, since the opposition BJP did field any candidate for the said posts. The decision was taken after the oath taking ceremony of the house.

The decision to appoint Surinder Chauhan as the Mayor was met with widespread support from both within the SMC and the local community. Chauhan, known for his unwavering commitment to public service and dedication to the betterment of Shimla, brings a wealth of experience to the position.

Also read: Shimla MC Poll results: Cong wins 24, BJP 9, CPI(M) 1`

Winning the seat this time Cauhan secured 1397 votes defeating Sanjeev Chauhan of BJP who got 840 votes. Chauhan being elected for the third time is also considered close aid to Chief Minister. CM Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has also remained councilor for the similar ward.

With a proven track record of effective governance and leadership, he is poised to take on the responsibilities of the city’s top office with great enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, Uma Kaushal’s has also been elected for the third time in a row and her husband Anand Kaushal also remained undefeated councilor from this wards four times. She defeated her BJP rival by 521 votes. She would be the first woman Deputy Mayor of Shimla MC as five women have been elected for the Mayor ( reserved ) seats including Satya Kandol, Kusum Sadrate, Madhu Sood and Jani Prem.

Notably, the Congress party had to elect Kaushal as Dy Mayor because of the fact that in the 34 member house including 14 Congress, total 21 women councillors have been elected. Whereas only 17 seats are reserved for women (14 woman and three SC woman).

As a councillor representing Tutikandi Ward, Kaushal has consistently advocated for inclusive policies and worked towards enhancing civic amenities in her area. With her strong leadership skills and community-focused approach, she is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting Mayor Chauhan’s vision for Shimla.
Pertinent to mention that the newly elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor will face a host of pressing issues, including traffic congestion, solid waste management, preservation of Shimla’s cultural heritage, and boosting tourism while ensuring sustainable development. The citizens of Shimla eagerly await the implementation of their progressive vision and are optimistic about the positive changes that will take place under the leadership of Mayor Surinder Chauhan and Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal.

Shimla MC was without elected local self Government for last one year as Shimla deputy commissioner Aditya Negi had been appointed as administrator by the previous BJP government as house tenure ended on June 23, 2022.

Earlier, a meeting of newly elected councillors was held at Congress Rajiv Bhawan here to make consensus on the top two posts. Earlier to this Satya Kaundal was Mayor of Shimla MC but she had lost this election.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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