Voters confront BJP nominees over civic issues in Ahmedabad ahead of polls

The Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) has been in power in the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) for several years. But now, BJP candidates campaigning for the municipal corporation elections in Ahmedabad faced protests and public anger in parts of the city, with residents raising concerns over unresolved civic issues, including water supply and drainage problems.

In Ghatlodiya, which falls under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s constituency, campaigning was disrupted in Ghatlodia village after a group of women confronted party candidates over the long-pending water tank issue. Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated into a heated argument after a candidate allegedly remarked that he did not require their votes, triggering strong reactions from locals.

The confrontation intensified, forcing BJP candidates to leave the area and suspend their campaign activity in the locality.

A similar incident was reported in Latlodia village, where residents, particularly women, questioned candidates over the lack of progress on basic infrastructure. The exchange soon turned into a scuffle involving party workers and local leaders. During the altercation, BJP candidate Pravin Patel allegedly reiterated that he did not need votes, prompting residents to respond angrily and halt the campaign.

Locals also expressed dissatisfaction over the selection of candidates, alleging that some nominees were not from the area. Party sources indicated that the issue has led to discontent among local workers, with some senior leaders likely to remain inactive during the elections.

In a separate incident in Vasna, former BJP corporator Mehul Shah faced protests from residents over drainage and water-related issues. Locals questioned the lack of development work and openly criticised the former corporator, asking why they should vote for him if basic problems remained unresolved.