Gujarat's Local Body Elections Witness Dynamic Voter Turnout

The Junagadh Municipal Corporation in Gujarat recorded a 44.32% voter turnout. Elections covered 66 municipalities and three taluka panchayats, with varying participation. The BJP is confident in winning several uncontested seats. Results are due on Tuesday, marking the first elections under a new 27% OBC quota.

On Sunday, Gujarat's local body elections marked a significant event with varying voter turnouts across regions. The Junagadh Municipal Corporation (JMC) saw a 44.32% voter engagement, while 66 municipalities averaged 61.65%, and mid-term polls in Botad and Wankaner recorded 35.25%, stated the State Election Commission (SEC).

This electoral exercise was notable as the first contest under the 27% quota for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in civic bodies, implemented by the Gujarat government in 2023. The SEC announced 213 seats as 'uncontested', with the ruling BJP expected to win eight such seats in JMC unopposed.

Voter decision outcomes are anticipated by Tuesday afternoon. The elections, conducted using EVMs, encapsulate a broader narrative of political shifts in Gujarat, influenced by recent changes in the OBC quota from a previous 10% to 27%, following a justice commission's recommendation.