Jaipur, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : In a significant upset during the Jaipur municipal elections, former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who recently switched from Congress to the BJP, has faced defeat. Khandelwal was regarded as a key figure in the BJP and a potential candidate for mayor, making her loss a major setback for the party’s plans.
Her defeat comes at a time when there were reports of discontent regarding her candidacy and local protests during the campaign. As the counting of votes continues, the BJP is currently leading in the elections, having won 23 out of 150 wards, while Congress has secured 16 and independent candidates have claimed four.
So far, results for 132 wards have been announced, with counting still ongoing for the remaining areas. The final outcome of this competitive election will be revealed on Monday. The counting is taking place at a center located at Shri Bhawani Niketan College on Sikar Road.
Voter turnout in Jaipur was reported at 63.55% during the elections held on September 11, with a total of 723 candidates vying for a seat. As the counting progresses, it will determine which political party will take control of the municipal body in the Pink City. Both BJP and Congress had claimed before the counting that they would form the municipal body with a clear majority.
However, the presence of independent candidates and rebel party leaders in various wards has added uncertainty to the final results. The district election commission has organized the counting process in phases, utilizing 15 control rooms and over 150 counting tables.
Khandelwal’s loss is seen as one of the most significant surprises in this election. Political analysts suggest that internal dissent, local opposition, and a strong challenge from Congress may have contributed to her defeat. The ongoing results could also exacerbate factional disputes within the BJP as the party evaluates its chances of controlling the municipal body.
With 69 wards won by the BJP and 49 by Congress, independent candidates have secured 14 wards, bringing the total declared results to 132. The remaining results will ultimately determine whether the BJP can achieve a majority on its own or if independents and other candidates will play a crucial role in forming the government.
This outcome is particularly vital as control over the Jaipur municipal body will shape the political leadership of one of Rajasthan’s most significant urban centers. As counting continues, the final figures are expected to clarify the race for the mayoral position.
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