Agartala, Nov 6 (PTI) The ruling BJP on Friday filed nomination papers for all 51 wards of the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC), with Chief Minister Manik Saha expressing confidence that the party would secure a bigger mandate in the November 27 civic elections.
The nomination papers were submitted at the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Sadar, in the presence of Saha and senior party leaders. A large number of party workers and supporters accompanied the candidates during the filing process.
Ahead of the exercise, the chief minister held a meeting with party candidates and organisational leaders at the State Guest House to discuss the election strategy and preparations.
Addressing party workers, Saha said the BJP would seek votes on the basis of its development record and welfare initiatives implemented across urban and rural areas.
He said the party’s priority was to serve people throughout the year rather than become active only during elections.
The chief minister maintained that the BJP’s political philosophy centred on ensuring that government benefits and development programmes reached every section of society, particularly those at the grassroots level.
Referring to the large gathering during the nomination filing, Saha said it reflected the enthusiasm of party workers and supporters.
Expressing confidence about the party’s electoral prospects, he said the BJP expected to perform well in Agartala as well as other urban local bodies across the state.
The party was confident of retaining control of civic bodies and improving its previous electoral performance, he said.
Saha urged candidates to intensify public outreach, maintain regular interaction with residents and highlight the government’s achievements during the campaign.
He also appealed to party functionaries to ensure a peaceful electoral atmosphere and keep the campaign focused on development and local issues.
Taking a swipe at opposition parties, the chief minister claimed that rival parties were facing internal differences, while asserting that the BJP remained united and prepared for the electoral contest.
With nominations filed in all 51 wards, the BJP has completed its candidate nomination exercise for the AMC elections scheduled for November 27.
Urban infrastructure, civic amenities, development initiatives and welfare programmes are expected to figure prominently in the campaign as political parties prepare for the municipal contest.
