As many as 34 candidates are left in the fray in 15 wards of the Palampur Municipal Corporation. The Election Department has released the final list and allotted election symbols. Both Congress and BJP have fielded 11 women and four men each in the 15 wards. A direct fight is expected between the BJP and the Congress in most of the wards while a few wards are likely to witness triangular contests involving Independent candidates. Political observers say that these elections are crucial for both parties as these will be a test of their political strength ahead of the Assembly and parliamentary elections in Kangra district.
According to the final candidate list released by the election authorities, Ward No. 5, Ward No. 6 and Ward No. 15 are witnessing triangular contests. In the remaining wards, the BJP and Congress candidates are engaged in a straight contest.
The candidates of the BJP and the Congress are contesting on the party symbols. Independent candidates are also in the fray in some wards and have been allotted separate election symbols, including the “rising sun”.
Political activity in Palampur gained momentum immediately after the finalisation of the candidates. Aspirants and party workers intensified door-to-door campaigns, corner meetings and public outreach programmes to consolidate voter support. Local issues such as traffic congestion, inadequate parking facilities, poor waste management, water supply problems, damaged roads and unplanned urban expansion are dominating the campaigns.
A strong generational shift is being witnessed this time, as several young candidates are contesting the elections. Both parties are attempting to balance the experienced leadership with the youth participation in an effort to attract first-time voters and urban middle-class residents.
Congress leaders are focusing on the alleged failures in civic administration and local infrastructure, while the BJP candidates are highlighting development works and government-supported urban projects initiated in recent years. The outcome of the elections is expected to influence the political landscape of Palampur and surrounding areas.
