Political Maneuvering in Ajmer Ahead of Mayoral Elections as Congress Shifts Councillors to Bengaluru

September 17, 2026

Ajmer, September 17 (Daily Kiran) : The political landscape in Ajmer is heating up as the Congress party prepares for the upcoming mayoral elections. To maintain party cohesion, Congress has relocated its councillors to Bengaluru ahead of the voting scheduled for September 21.

Leading this group is Dharmendra Rathore, former chairman of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation. Reports indicate that 37 Congress councillors and five independent councillors have been sent to Bengaluru, totaling 42 councillors in the group.

Rathore confirmed that the councillors will remain in Bengaluru until September 20, returning to Ajmer for the mayoral vote on the 21st. Initially, the party had gathered its elected councillors in Pushkar, but following directives from top party leadership, the decision was made to move them to Bengaluru.

Ajmer Municipal Corporation comprises 80 wards. Congress holds 37 seats, while the BJP has secured 32, and independent candidates have claimed 11. A majority requires 41 votes, making the independent councillors crucial in this election. Congress asserts it has the support of the five independent councillors. Both major parties are actively seeking to consolidate support ahead of the elections.

For the mayoral position, Congress has nominated Kiran Garhwal from Ward 57, while the BJP has put forward Anamika Sharma from Ward 3. Both candidates submitted their nominations on Wednesday, setting the stage for a direct contest.

Garhwal has stated that enhancing women’s safety will be one of her top priorities. She also emphasized the need for improved facilities for youth and better sports infrastructure, along with a comprehensive development plan for Ajmer.

Rathore mentioned that the decision to move councillors was made due to concerns about potential pressure from the BJP. He accused the BJP of attempting to sway Congress councillors, a claim that remains unverified.

As the mayoral election approaches, both Congress and the BJP are focused on securing the backing of independent councillors. The elected councillors will cast their votes on September 21, with results expected the same day.