Last-minute twist rocks Karnal Zila Parishad poll, former chief’s camp plays masterstroke
An unexpected twist completely altered the contest for the post of Karnal Zila Parishad (ZP) Chairperson, turning what had appeared to be a predictable outcome into a major upset and leaving several members and political observers surprised.
Vice-Chairperson and officiating Chairperson Reena Rani was widely considered the frontrunner for the vacant post. However, the political equations within the House shifted dramatically at the eleventh hour.
When the votes were counted, Geeta Rani, wife of Surinder Udana, secured 15 votes, comfortably defeating Reena Rani, who received nine votes. Surinder Udana was with the BJP until the 2024 Assembly election and quit the party after being denied a ticket. He subsequently contested the Assembly election on a BSP ticket.
A total of 24 of the 25 ZP members cast their votes, while one member remained absent. Reena Rani’s husband, Dheeraj Kharkali, is an active BJP leader.
According to sources, Sohan Singh Rana, husband of former Chairperson Parvesh Rana, played a key role in mobilising support for Geeta Rani, helping her enter the contest and ultimately secure victory. The sudden change in strategy disrupted the expected voting pattern and triggered fresh political realignments within the House.
The election was held to fill the vacant post of ZP Chairperson after former Chairperson Parvesh Rana was removed through a no-confidence motion.
According to Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Dr Anand Kumar Sharma, the election process was conducted peacefully at Vikas Sadan. Voting was held using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) after a mock poll was conducted in the presence of both candidates and their proposers to ensure transparency. Following the counting of votes, Dr Sharma officially declared Geeta Rani elected as the new Chairperson of the Karnal Zila Parishad.
Following his wife’s defeat, Dheeraj Kharkali accused Surinder Udana of backstabbing him, alleging that he had betrayed his trust.
“He stood by me for more than three years, but in the end, he betrayed me,” Kharkali alleged.
Geeta Rani said she would work with all members and ensure the equitable distribution of development grants across the district.
“I am thankful to all the members for their support and will ensure equal development in all the wards,” she said.
Surinder Udana refuted Kharkali’s allegations, saying that the House had entrusted his wife with the responsibility of leading the Zila Parishad and that she would discharge her duties with honesty and sincerity.
