Kullu: Polling for 51 urban local bodies in Himachal Pradesh passed off peacefully on Sunday, with the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party both claiming victories in several municipal councils and nagar panchayats as results started pouring in the same evening.
Voter Turnout and Polling Details
According to the State Election Commission, the state recorded an overall voter turnout of 69.16% in polling held for 25 municipal councils, 22 nagar panchayats, and four municipal corporations. A total of 1,147 candidates contested for 449 posts without party symbols. Of the 3.62 lakh eligible voters, 2.5 lakh exercised their franchise. The electorate also included 1,808 first-time voters. The election commission had set up 589 polling stations across the state, with polling held from 7 am to 3 pm.
Party Claims and Regional Highlights
The BJP claimed victory in Manali, Bilaspur, Parwanoo, Nalagarh, Arki, and Una, while Congress claimed wins in Dehra, Nerchowk, Banjar, and Bhuntar. Hamirpur district recorded the highest voter turnout at 78.89%, while Solan witnessed the lowest polling at 64.2%. Among all urban local bodies, Shri Naina Devi Ji registered the highest turnout at 86%.
Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayat Polls
In the municipal council and nagar panchayat polls, the overall turnout stood at 72.42%. The peaceful conduct of elections was noted across the state, with no major incidents reported.
