In the backdrop of the upcoming elections for 29 municipal corporations in the state, the process of filing nomination papers is now complete. Today is considered extremely important after the deadline for filing nominations has ended, as today the scrutiny of the applications will take place. In this process, eligibility, document completion, and compliance with rules will be checked, and all political parties and candidates are keenly watching to see whose applications are deemed valid and whose are rejected in this scrutiny.
According to the schedule announced by the Election Commission, candidates have the opportunity to withdraw their nominations until January 2. Therefore, after scrutiny, some candidates may voluntarily withdraw. This could change the dynamics of contests in many wards. In some places, there will be friendly contests, while in others, direct political conflicts will be observed.
On January 3, election symbols will be distributed, and on the same day, the final list of candidates will be published. There are indications that the election campaign will intensify after the distribution of symbols. Political parties are strategizing for the campaign, with ward-wise meetings, campaign rallies, marches, and outreach programs gaining momentum.
Meanwhile, voting will take place on January 15, and the voting process will be conducted on the same day in 29 municipal corporations in the state. As the counting of votes will take place the very next day, on January 16, the excitement regarding the results has increased. These elections are likely to change the power equations in local self-government institutions, and these municipal elections are considered important in view of the upcoming assembly and Lok Sabha elections.
During today's scrutiny of nominations, it will become clear whose nominations are rejected and who remains in the election fray, which will clarify the picture of the contests in many wards. Therefore, today is going to be extremely decisive politically.