Opposition wiped out as ruling party dominates first election in newly formed municipal corporation
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has registered a sweeping victory in the newly formed Morbi Municipal Corporation, winning all 52 seats across 13 wards and securing complete control of the civic body.
The result marks a total rout of the opposition, with both the Indian National Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party failing to win a single seat. The outcome ensures that the BJP will govern the corporation without any formal opposition presence.
The election was held against the backdrop of economic stress in Morbi’s ceramic industry, one of the largest tile manufacturing hubs globally. The sector has been hit by disruptions in fuel supply following tensions in the Middle East, particularly the Iran-Israel conflict.
Shortages of propane and natural gas reportedly led to the temporary closure of over 100 ceramic units, triggering labour migration and concerns over economic stability in the region.
Despite these challenges and rising production costs, voters appeared to favour political continuity and administrative stability.
According to data from the State Election Commission, voter turnout stood at 55.1% for municipal corporations, 65.53% for municipalities, 66.64% for district panchayats and 67.26% for taluka panchayats.
Among municipal corporations, Gandhidham recorded the lowest turnout at 46.03%, while Vapi saw the highest at 72.29%. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation reported a turnout of 51.81%.
Polling was conducted for the first time in nine newly created municipal corporations, including Morbi, Navsari, Gandhidham, Vapi, Anand, Nadiad, Mehsana, Porbandar and Surendranagar.
The BJP, Congress and AAP were the principal contenders, while the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) also fielded candidates in select areas.
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