Gujarat's Mini-Assembly Showdown: A Political Thriller Unfolds

In Gujarat, local elections echo the state's political temperature ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. A multi-cornered contest unfolds among BJP, Congress, AAP, and AIMIM, with civic issues dominating the campaign. The BJP aims to maintain its dominance, while rivals seek to expand their influence.

Gujarat's political landscape is set for a major test as local and civic body elections unfold on Sunday. With the BJP facing the challenge of retaining its three-decade dominance, Congress, AAP, and AIMIM are keen to make significant inroads. The elections are seen as a precursor to the 2027 assembly polls.

Polls will be conducted across 15 municipal corporations, 84 municipalities, 34 district panchayats, and 260 taluka panchayats, with over 4.18 crore eligible voters. The elections incorporate new norms for OBC reservations and substantial restructuring of wards.

Civic issues like road conditions and water supply have been focal points of campaigning. Rallies and door-to-door visits have been prevalent, with AAP and other parties vying to expand their electoral footprint. The elections also witness the debut of nine newly-established municipal corporations.