SC Decision: AAP’s Kuldeep Kumar Declared Winner of Chandigarh Mayoral Poll – What You Need to Know

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Feb. In a landmark decision on Tuesday, the Supreme Court declared Kuldeep Kumar of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as the winner of last month’s Chandigarh mayoral election.

This ruling comes after weeks of controversy surrounding the election process, triggered by the invalidation and discarding of eight votes in Kumar’s favor by Returning Officer Anil Masih.

The court’s order, following the counting of votes, including those previously rejected, in the courtroom, overturns the earlier result that saw the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Manoj Sonkar elected Mayor.

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal welcomed the verdict, while Masih faces contempt of court charges initiated by the Supreme Court for his actions.

The judgement marks a historic first in independent India, potentially leading to Masih’s prosecution for what the court previously termed a “mockery of democracy.” Additionally, it signifies a significant victory for the AAP and the Congress, who contested as allies, against the BJP.

The ruling is expected to strengthen the AAP-Congress alliance, which has faced internal discord, particularly regarding seat-sharing agreements. Although initial strains threatened the coalition’s cohesion, the mayoral election outcome is likely to bolster their ties.

However, challenges remain, as indicated by the ongoing negotiations over seat-sharing arrangements, especially in Punjab and Delhi. The parties’ state units have expressed reservations, complicating efforts to reach consensus.

The controversy surrounding the Chandigarh mayoral election erupted following the circulation of a video showing Masih marking ballot papers during the counting process. The video sparked protests from the AAP and Congress, alleging BJP involvement, which the BJP vehemently denied.