Amravati Municipal Elections Deliver Hung Verdict, Yuva Swabhiman Holds Key
The Amravati Municipal Corporation elections have resulted in a hung house. No single political party secured a clear majority. This outcome has thrust Ravi Rana's Yuva Swabhiman Party into a pivotal position.
BJP's Seat Count Dips, Needs Ally to Govern
The Bharatiya Janata Party managed to win only 25 seats. This number represents a significant drop. The party secured 20 fewer seats compared to its previous election tally. The BJP now requires external support to form the administration in Amravati.
Yuva Swabhiman Party Declares Support for BJP
Ravi Rana, the chief of the Yuva Swabhiman Party, did not keep people guessing. He openly stated his party's position on Saturday. "During the campaigning stage itself we had said that Amravati will have a BJP mayor. Our stand remains unchanged. Yuva Swabhiman Party will help BJP form the government," Rana announced.
His party captured 15 seats, making it the crucial kingmaker. Local BJP leaders have not yet officially reacted to Rana's offer of support. BJP Rajya Sabha MP Anil Bonde indicated that the final decision would be taken at a higher level within the party.
Rana Credits Voters and Leadership for Success
Ravi Rana attributed his party's performance to the trust of the electorate. He expressed gratitude towards Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, and former MP Navneet Rana. Rana emphasized his party's rigorous candidate selection process. He believes they deserve an opportunity to serve the people of Amravati.
The Yuva Swabhiman Party secured victories in key areas including Vilas Nagar-Mor Bagh and Sai Nagar. Interestingly, the party had predicted a BJP mayor even without a formal pre-poll alliance.
Congress Criticizes BJP's Position
The Congress party retained its strength, holding onto 15 seats. Congress leader and former minister Yashomati Thakur was quick to comment on the BJP's situation. She stated that the BJP must now bow down to the Yuva Swabhiman Party to gain power.
"It was a battle between people's power and money power. Despite having all the resources at its disposal, BJP lost. Yuva Swabhiman party's disciplined approach paid off. Now, BJP has to bow down to them," Thakur remarked.
She argued that the people of Amravati have rejected the BJP. Thakur also criticized BJP's Navneet Rana for campaigning for Yuva Swabhiman Party candidates instead of focusing on BJP's own nominees.
The political landscape in Amravati now hinges on formal negotiations. All eyes are on the BJP's next move as it seeks to secure the necessary support to establish its governance.
