Gujarat Local Body Elections: BJP Takes Early Lead Amid Counting

The ongoing counting of votes in Gujarat's local body elections reveals an early lead for the BJP, with significant victories in various municipalities. The elections, held on April 26, have seen a diverse voter turnout across local bodies. Notably, the Congress has made a comeback in Rajkot's Ward 16, while the Aam Aadmi Party has also secured wins in multiple districts. This electoral exercise is pivotal as it sets the stage for the upcoming assembly elections. Stay tuned for more updates on the results and implications of these elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 28, 2026, 10:59 IST

Counting of Votes in Gujarat Local Body Elections

The counting of votes for the local body elections in Gujarat is currently underway, with the ruling BJP establishing an early advantage across various local bodies. These elections took place on April 26, and today, votes are being counted for 15 municipal corporations, 84 municipalities, 34 district panchayats, and 260 taluka panchayats. The results of this significant electoral process are expected to provide insights into voter sentiment ahead of next year's assembly elections. Prior to the commencement of vote counting, the BJP secured an early lead, winning 43 seats uncontested in the state's 15 municipal corporations.

Voter Turnout Statistics

According to the election commission, the voter turnout for the 15 municipal corporations was recorded at 55.1%. The turnout was higher in other local bodies, with municipalities seeing 65.53%, district panchayats at 66.64%, and taluka panchayats achieving 67.26%. These elections encompassed a total of 9,200 seats, with over 41.8 million voters eligible to cast their ballots in this extensive democratic exercise.

Congress Secures Victory in Rajkot's Ward 16

In a notable shift, the Congress candidate has emerged victorious in Ward 16 of Rajkot, marking a significant change from the previous elections when the party lost this ward. This victory is attributed to local issues, particularly the campaign against encroachments in the Jangleshwar area. It is believed that the reversal of bulldozer actions influenced voter sentiment in favor of Congress.

BJP's Progress in Surat and Rajkot

In Surat, the BJP panel is leading in Ward 4 of Kapodra, with victory appearing almost certain. This seat was previously held by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) during the 2021 elections. Additionally, in Navsari, the BJP panel has secured a win in Ward 9.

The BJP has also opened its account in Rajkot by winning a taluka panchayat seat in Dhoraji. Candidate Taraba Bhikhubha Vaghela won the Khamber taluka panchayat seat. Furthermore, the party has strengthened its position in the Panchmahal district, with victories in Jambughoda taluka, where BJP candidates Nikitabhen and Ramila Ben Ranjitbhai won their respective taluka panchayat seats.

AAP's Wins in Local Body Elections

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has made its mark in the local body elections, achieving victories in Gir Somnath, Junagadh, and Amreli districts.

In Gir Somnath, AAP candidates won taluka panchayat seats, including a victory for Jasminebhai from the Amblash seat. In Junagadh, the party secured three seats in the Amrapur taluka panchayat of Maliyahatina, with candidate Dayaben Bhard winning by a margin of 265 votes.

In Amreli, AAP's Dakubhai Gazipara won the Bagasra taluka panchayat seat, further enhancing the party's early lead in the elections.