Nagpur witnessed a remarkable political event on Friday as 21-year-old Lakshmi Hattithele secured her position as the youngest corporator in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation's history. The young candidate, representing Prabhag 5-A on a BJP ticket, achieved this feat through a dramatic electoral comeback that kept everyone on edge.
A Thrilling Victory Against the Odds
Lakshmi Hattithele, currently a fifth-semester BA Psychology student, faced a challenging counting process. For the initial twelve rounds, she trailed behind her rival, with defeat seeming inevitable. However, the thirteenth round marked a stunning turnaround.
She gained a lead of 181 votes in that crucial round and continued to surge ahead. By the end of counting, Lakshmi posted a decisive victory margin of 1,024 votes. This remarkable shift transformed what appeared to be a loss into a clear win.
Political Roots and Personal Determination
Lakshmi hails from a family with deep connections to Nagpur's political landscape. Both her parents served as former NMC corporators. Her father, the late Raju Hattithele, and her mother, Durga, have been involved in municipal governance.
Her mother faced disqualification previously due to issues with a caste certificate. Despite these family challenges, Lakshmi entered the political fray at a young age, showcasing her determination. Her victory highlights the growing influence of young leaders in local government across India.
Gratitude and Future Commitments
After her win, Lakshmi expressed heartfelt gratitude to her supporters. "I am grateful to my voters, especially the Gen Z generation, who spared their time and voted for me," she stated. She emphasized her commitment to serving effectively.
"I will work to the best of my abilities and live up to the expectations of the party as well as the voters," Lakshmi added, outlining her dedication to her new role.
Significance for Nagpur and Youth in Politics
This election result signals a shift toward younger representation in Nagpur's municipal affairs. Lakshmi's success as a 21-year-old student demonstrates that age is no barrier to political participation. Her comeback story inspires many aspiring young politicians.
The counting process itself became a local thriller, with suspense building round by round. Lakshmi's eventual triumph underscores the unpredictable nature of democratic elections and the power of perseverance.
