Active political engagement across Punjab ahead of municipal elections

Political activity has intensified in Punjab as all major parties gear up for the impending elections to the municipal corporations, urban local bodies, municipal councils, and nagar panchayats. The Punjab State Election Commission could announce these elections at any time, which will involve five municipal corporations, 46 urban local bodies, and 41 municipal councils and nagar panchayats.

In a democratic setup, elections to municipal bodies are crucial as they often shape the trajectory of future assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Speculation is rife that the Punjab State Election Commission may announce the election dates imminently. Leaders from various political parties, such as Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD-Badal) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have already called for the elections to be scheduled in January 2025. However, the final decision lies with the Election Commission. 

AAP in High Spirits Post By-Election Victories
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), energised by its victories in three out of four recent assembly by-elections, is optimistic about its performance in the municipal polls. Following the appointment of Aman Arora as the new state president and Amansher Singh Sherry as working president, the party conducted a Shukrana Yatra from Patiala to Amritsar to rally its cadre and volunteers. AAP’s leadership is banking on the perceived success of their policies and has tasked ministers with mobilising support in preparation for the elections.

Congress Looks to Reclaim Influence
Under the leadership of Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, the Congress Party is hopeful of a strong performance. Despite losing the three assembly by-elections, the party retained second position in these contests. Historically, Congress has held significant influence, with mayors in key cities like Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, and Ludhiana.
BJP Gears Up for Solo Contest
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which traditionally contested municipal elections in alliance with its partners, is preparing for its first solo campaign in Punjab. Senior BJP leaders have been assigned in-charge and co-in-charge responsibilities for 45 wards each. The party’s membership drive, extended until December 2, 2024, is part of its strategy to strengthen grassroots support.

SAD (Badal) and Other Parties Remain Cautious
The SAD (Badal) abstained from recent assembly by-elections and has yet to reveal its strategy for the municipal elections, with announcements expected in early December. Meanwhile, SAD (Amritsar) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) have not disclosed their plans regarding participation in these elections.

A Complex Electoral Landscape
In municipal elections, personal connections with voters often outweigh party affiliations, making them unpredictable and multi-cornered contests. The fluidity of political allegiances further adds to the intrigue, with leaders potentially shifting between parties to secure their chances of success.

In this high-stakes battle, who will emerge as Mukaddar Ka Sikandar remains to be seen.
 

Authored by:
Rajat Kumar Mohindru
Journalist, 
Jalandhar City.