Scuffle Breaks Out Between BJP, Congress-AAP Workers in Chandigarh Over Mayoral Polls

A scuffle broke out between BJP and Congress-AAP workers at the Chandigarh municipal corporation office ahead of the mayoral polls. The incident occurred when Congress councillor Jasbir Singh Bunty arrived to withdraw his nomination for mayor. Buntys father alleged that his son was kidnapped, sparking a clash between workers. The Congress accused Buntys father of making false claims under BJP influence. Later, the Chandigarh police escorted Bunty to his residence.

A tense situation arose in Chandigarh on Tuesday as a scuffle broke out between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress-Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers at the municipal corporation office. The incident occurred just ahead of the highly anticipated Chandigarh mayoral polls, adding to the already charged political atmosphere.

Congress Councillor Withdraws Nomination, Sparks Controversy

The commotion began when Congress municipal councillor Jasbir Singh Bunty arrived at the MC office to withdraw his nomination papers for the mayoral post. Bunty's father, who accompanied him, made startling allegations, claiming that his son had been kidnapped. This accusation further escalated the tension, leading to a physical altercation between Congress-AAP workers and BJP supporters.

Congress Accuses Bunty's Father of BJP Influence

The Congress party swiftly responded to the allegations, accusing Bunty's father of being influenced by the BJP. They asserted that these claims were baseless and politically motivated. Amidst the chaos, the Chandigarh police intervened and escorted Bunty to his residence to ensure his safety.

Congress-AAP Alliance and Mayoral Contests

Bunty was initially the Congress candidate for the mayoral position. However, a strategic alliance was formed between the Congress and AAP, resulting in a decision that the AAP would contest for the mayor's seat, while Congress nominees would vie for the senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor posts.

Bunty's Video Message and Allegations of Misuse of Local Administration

In a subsequent video message, Bunty sought to clarify his stance, stating that he remained loyal to the Congress party and would continue to be a part of it. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Pawan Kumar Bansal raised serious concerns, accusing the BJP of misusing the local administration to poach leaders from opposition parties. These allegations added another layer of complexity to the already tense political landscape.

AAP-Congress Alliance and Party Strengths

The AAP and Congress forged an alliance on Monday in preparation for the upcoming Chandigarh mayoral polls. As per the arrangement, the AAP will field a candidate for the mayor's seat, while the Congress will contest for the senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor positions. In the 35-member Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, the BJP holds 14 councillors, along with an ex-officio member (MP) who possesses voting rights. The AAP has 13 councillors, while the Congress has seven. The Shiromani Akali Dal holds one councillor in the House.

Upcoming Mayoral Polls

The highly anticipated polls for the posts of mayor, senior deputy mayor, and deputy mayor are scheduled to take place on Thursday. The outcome of these elections will determine the leadership of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation and shape the political dynamics of the city.