After the scrutiny of nomination papers, 447 candidates remain in the fray for the upcoming Jalandhar Municipal Corporation (MC) elections, officials confirmed on Wednesday. The elections, scheduled for February 14, will see candidates contesting for 85 wards across the city.
Scrutiny Process Details
The scrutiny process, which began on Monday, examined the nomination papers of all candidates who had filed their candidature. A total of 512 candidates had initially submitted their papers. Following the scrutiny, 65 nominations were rejected due to various discrepancies, including incomplete forms, missing documents, and technical errors.
Political Party Representation
Among the remaining candidates, the ruling party in the state has fielded candidates in all 85 wards, while the main opposition party is contesting in 80 wards. Independent candidates and smaller parties make up the rest of the field. The final list of candidates was published after the scrutiny, and the last date for withdrawal of nominations is January 28.
Key Issues and Campaigning
The election campaign is expected to heat up in the coming days, with major parties focusing on issues such as infrastructure development, waste management, and water supply. The municipal corporation elections are seen as a crucial test for the ruling party ahead of the next state assembly elections.
Officials have made arrangements for smooth polling, with 300 polling stations set up across the city. The counting of votes will take place on February 17. The elections are being conducted under the supervision of the State Election Commission, which has deployed adequate security personnel to ensure peaceful voting.
Voter Turnout Expectations
With over 5 lakh eligible voters, the Jalandhar MC polls are expected to witness a decent turnout. The Election Commission has urged voters to exercise their franchise and has set up awareness campaigns to encourage participation. The final voter turnout will be crucial in determining the outcome of the elections.
