Key Facts
In a significant political development, Congress-backed candidate Prashant Thakur has been elected as the Chairman of the Block Development Council (BDC) Chauntra in Mandi district. The election, held on Monday, saw Thakur defeat BJP-supported candidate Daleep by a margin of 15 votes. Additionally, Ashok Kumar, a BDC member from Tulah Ward, was elected Vice Chairman unopposed.
Election Details
The voting took place at the Block Development Office Chauntra under tight police security. All 20 BDC members exercised their franchise. Prashant Thakur, son of Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee Vice President Jeevan Thakur, secured 15 votes, while Daleep managed only 5. Supporters celebrated the victory with a road show from Chauntra to Jogindranagar.
Assistant Returning Officer and SDM Jogindranagar, Maneesh Chaudhary, confirmed that the elections for Chairman and Vice Chairman were conducted peacefully. He stated, "Elections for the posts of Chairman and Vice Chairman were conducted peacefully. All 20 members exercised their franchise."
Political Impact
The outcome has surprised many, as the BDC had 14 Congress-supported members and 6 BJP-supported members. The extra vote for Congress suggests possible cross-voting from the BJP camp. This victory comes shortly after Congress won the Chairman and Vice Chairman positions in Nagar Parishad Jogindranagar, further consolidating its political dominance in the region.
The BDC Chauntra represents 44 panchayats, making this win crucial for local governance and development. Congress leader Jeevan Thakur's strategy and organizational strength are seen as key factors behind the victory.
What Readers Should Know
- The BDC Chairman and Vice Chairman elections were held on June 22, 2026.
- Prashant Thakur (Congress) won with 15 votes against BJP's Daleep (5 votes).
- Ashok Kumar was elected Vice Chairman unopposed.
- The win strengthens Congress's hold in Jogindranagar and Chauntra areas.
- Allegations of cross-voting have emerged from the BJP side.
FAQ
Who won the Chauntra BDC chairman election?
Prashant Thakur, supported by Congress, won the election defeating BJP candidate Daleep by 15 votes.
Who was elected vice chairman of Chauntra BDC?
Ashok Kumar, a BDC member from Tulah Ward, was elected unopposed as vice chairman.
How many votes did each candidate receive?
Prashant Thakur received 15 votes, while Daleep got 5 votes.
What is the political significance of this election?
This win strengthens Congress's hold in Jogindranagar after recent victories in Nagar Parishad elections, and indicates possible cross-voting by BJP members.