In New Delhi, on December 3rd (NationPress), the counting process for the by-elections across 12 wards of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is revealing exciting results. The BJP is currently in the lead with victories in four seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has claimed two seats, and the Congress has managed to secure one seat as of Wednesday.

The BJP celebrated its win in the Shalimar Bagh seat, with Seema Goyal emerging as the victor, while Suman Kumar Gupta took the Chandni Chowk ward for the party. In a notable success for Congress, candidate Suresh Choudhary triumphed in Sangam Vihar with 9,138 votes. Meanwhile, AAP's Ram Swaroop Kanojia claimed the Dakshin Puri ward.

Within the 250-member MCD House, the current seat distribution shows the BJP with 115 seats, AAP with 99, the Indraprastha Vikas Party holding 15, and Congress with 8. These bypolls represent a crucial electoral challenge for the BJP following its resounding success in the recent Assembly elections. Both AAP and Congress perceive this contest as a chance to regain their political influence in the capital.

Ten counting centers have been established for this process, situated in locations such as Kanjhawala, Pitampura, Bharat Nagar, Civil Lines, Rouse Avenue, Dwarka, Najafgarh, Gole Market, Pushp Vihar, and Mandawali. Each center has been allocated specific wards and is equipped with secure rooms, monitored entry and exit points, along with surveillance arrangements, as reported by the State Election Commission.

According to the SEC, the overall voter turnout across the 12 wards was recorded at 38.51 percent by 5:30 p.m. on the polling day, November 30. A total of 580 polling stations were established, with Chandni Mahal achieving the highest turnout at 55.93 percent. Officials confirmed that the polling process was peaceful and free from incidents.

The Commission collaborated with District Election Officers, Returning Officers, General Observers, and security agencies to ensure a transparent and efficient election process. An SEC representative indicated that the full results are anticipated to be disclosed by late morning or shortly thereafter.

The results of these bypolls will have significant political implications, potentially altering the balance of power within the MCD. Should the BJP continue to gain seats as the counting progresses, their overall tally could see further enhancement.

A robust performance by the BJP is expected to elevate the standing of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, possibly reinforcing the public's perception of her administration’s initiatives, including e-bus services, health and insurance programs, and arrangements made for Chhath Puja devotees.