A total of 1,175 candidates submitted their nomination papers on the last day of filing for the municipal corporation elections in the Mohali region, which includes the towns of Mohali, Kurali, Lalru, Zirakpur, Dera Bassi, and Banur. The final day saw a surge in filings, with candidates from various political parties and independents rushing to beat the deadline.
Heavy Security and Arrangements
The election authorities had made elaborate security arrangements to ensure a smooth process. Police personnel were deployed at all nomination centers to maintain law and order. The returning officers verified the documents and issued acknowledgments to the candidates.
Breakdown of Nominations
According to officials, the highest number of nominations were filed in Mohali, followed by Zirakpur and Dera Bassi. The list includes candidates from major political parties such as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress, along with several independent candidates.
- Mohali: 450 nominations
- Zirakpur: 210 nominations
- Dera Bassi: 195 nominations
- Kurali: 120 nominations
- Lalru: 100 nominations
- Banur: 100 nominations
Scrutiny and Withdrawal Process
The scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on the following day, and candidates will have the opportunity to withdraw their nominations within the stipulated timeframe. The final list of contestants will be published after the withdrawal deadline.
Political Reactions
Political parties expressed confidence in their candidates. The AAP claimed that it would sweep the polls, while the Congress and SAD alleged that the ruling party was using unfair means. The BJP also fielded candidates in several wards, hoping to make inroads in the region.
The municipal corporation elections are crucial for the urban local bodies in Punjab, as they determine the governance of cities and towns. The elections are expected to be held in the coming weeks, with the dates yet to be announced by the State Election Commission.
Voters in the six towns will elect their representatives for various wards. The winning candidates will form the municipal councils, which are responsible for providing basic amenities like water supply, sanitation, and street lighting. The election campaign has already begun, with candidates reaching out to voters through door-to-door canvassing and public meetings.
