Political Tensions Rise Ahead of Gujarat Local Body Elections

The political atmosphere in Gujarat is heating up as local body elections approach. Home State Minister Harsh Sanghvi has criticized the opposition, particularly targeting Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's recent comments about the state's populace. With elections set for April 26, Sanghvi emphasizes the unity of the BJP and the people of Gujarat, promising a strong response to those who disrespect them. This article delves into the unfolding political drama and the implications for the upcoming elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 13, 2026, 11:41 IST

Political Campaigns Heat Up in Gujarat

The countdown for local body elections in Gujarat has officially begun, sparking a surge in political rhetoric. During the launch of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) municipal election campaign in Vadodara, Home State Minister Harsh Sanghvi launched a fierce attack on the opposition. He asserted that those who disrespect the people of Gujarat will face a significant backlash in the upcoming elections.

Recently, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge referred to the people of Gujarat as 'uneducated' and claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is deceiving them. Sanghvi's remarks came just a week after Kharge's controversial statement.

The elections for 34 district panchayats, 260 taluka panchayats, 84 municipalities, and 15 municipal corporations, including major cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara, are scheduled for April 26, with the counting of votes set for April 28.

Sanghvi emphasized, 'Those who harbor hatred for Gujarat and consider its people foolish will receive a strong response in every district.' He further stated that the people of Gujarat and the BJP form a large family. The Deputy Chief Minister noted that the state BJP president Jagdish Vishwakarma, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and the citizens of Gujarat are collectively working towards creating a new history in the 2026 local body elections.