The political deadlock over the formation of the Nahan Municipal Council, one of India's oldest civic bodies, ended on Tuesday when the chairperson and vice-chairperson were elected through a draw of lots. The unprecedented tie between Congress-backed and BJP-backed councillors, each securing seven votes, forced the lottery-based decision.
Congress wins chairperson post via lottery
Congress candidate Upma Dhiman won the chairperson's post after the draw of lots. The BJP-supported candidate Pradeep Sahotra secured the vice-chairperson's position. The result creates a power-sharing arrangement where Congress heads the council while BJP holds the second-highest post.
Nahan MLA Ajay Solanki, whose vote helped Congress reach seven, described Dhiman's election as a victory for democratic values and collective leadership. He said the council would work together to address civic issues and accelerate development. Solanki expressed confidence that the council would meet residents' expectations and improve public services.
BJP reacts to outcome
State BJP president Rajeev Bindal claimed the recent local body elections show strong public support for BJP in Sirmaur. He noted that BJP-backed candidates won all three Zila Parishad seats in the Nahan Assembly constituency and seven of the 13 MC wards. Bindal alleged that the election process was deliberately delayed under pressure from the Congress government and criticised the local MLA's participation in voting.
