Punjab State Election Commission has announced that a total of 7,555 candidates will contest in the upcoming elections for 105 urban local bodies across the state. The elections are scheduled to be held on December 29, with results to be declared on December 31.
Candidate Breakdown
Out of the 7,555 candidates, 4,102 are contesting for municipal council seats, 2,853 for nagar panchayats, and 600 for municipal corporations. The commission has finalized the list after scrutiny of nominations, with 1,023 candidates withdrawing their candidature before the deadline.
Key Contests in Major Cities
In Ludhiana, the largest municipal corporation in the state, 456 candidates are vying for 85 wards. Amritsar follows with 342 candidates for 75 wards, while Jalandhar has 298 candidates for 60 wards. Patiala and Bathinda also witness significant contests with 210 and 185 candidates respectively.
Political Parties in Fray
Major political parties including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have fielded candidates in most urban bodies. Independent candidates also form a sizable chunk, with 1,890 contesting without party affiliation.
Voter Turnout Expectations
The commission expects a high voter turnout, with over 2.5 crore eligible voters in urban areas. Special arrangements have been made for smooth voting, including adequate polling booths and security measures. Voters will be able to cast their ballots from 7 AM to 6 PM on December 29.
Results and Aftermath
Counting of votes will take place on December 31, with results expected by evening. The newly elected bodies will serve a five-year term. The elections are seen as a crucial test for the ruling AAP government, which has been in power since March 2022.
State Election Commissioner S. Karuna Raju stated that all arrangements are in place for free and fair elections. He urged voters to exercise their franchise and contribute to strengthening democracy at the grassroots level.
