All candidates withdraw From Behna ward in Mandi civic polls

A surprising development emerged during the ongoing Municipal Corporation elections in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. Election activities in Ward No. 14 (Behna) came to a sudden halt, after all contesting candidates (including the BJP and Congress) collectively withdrew their nomination papers. The move has left the entire electoral process in the ward uncertain and incomplete.

The decision came amid strong and unified opposition from local residents, who have long been demanding that Behna Ward be excluded from the municipal limits.

According to villagers, the inclusion of their area into the municipal corporation has resulted in a significant increase in tax burden, while basic urban facilities and infrastructure improvements have not reached them in proportion to the taxes being collected.

Facing growing public resentment and pressure from the community, all candidates contesting from the ward decided to respect the public sentiment. In a collective decision, they withdrew from the electoral race, stating that the concerns and demands of the people were more important than holding public office or participating in the election.

This unified withdrawal has sent a strong message to the government and administration, highlighting the intensity of local dissatisfaction. Residents have made it clear that they will not participate in any electoral process unless their demand for exclusion from the municipal corporation is addressed.

Assistant Election officer and Balh SDM for Ward No. 14 Samritika Negi confirmed the report and said all four candidates, two from political parties and two independent, withdrew their nominations.

The development has created a challenging situation for the election authorities and district administration. With all nominations withdrawn from a single ward, officials are now left dealing with an unusual electoral deadlock. The Election Commission and local administration are expected to review the situation and determine the next course of action.

The incident has also sparked wider political attention, with all eyes now on how the government responds to this rare and collective form of protest.