Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Dec 22: In Maharashtra’s municipal elections covering 288 councils and nagar panchayats, the Congress party secured 41 municipal presidents and 1,006 councillor seats, showcasing resilience despite challenging circumstances.
State Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal highlighted that the party’s performance was driven by ideology rather than financial muscle. “With no financial backing and relying solely on a firm belief in democratic values, our workers took on the ruling dispensation’s money power. These results show that trust outweighs money, and ideas are more powerful than mere influence,” he said.
Sapkal emphasised that elections bring both victories and defeats, but the determination of Congress workers remains unwavering. He praised their energy, faith, and dedication, which he said were clearly reflected in the recent results.
By region, the party’s performance included: Nagpur division – 14 municipal presidents and 340 councillors; Amravati – 9 presidents and 236 councillors; Marathwada – 5 presidents and 156 councillors; western Maharashtra – 3 presidents and 47 councillors; northern Maharashtra – 2 presidents and 47 councillors; and Konkan – 1 president and 26 councillors. Additionally, Congress-supported local alliances won 7 presidents and 154 councillor seats.
Addressing critics who claim the party is declining, Sapkal said, “The people have rejected the notion that social harmony can be disrupted in the name of caste or religion, or that elections can be won purely through money. Congress ideology continues to resonate with the people.”
He acknowledged that the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led party may have leveraged administrative and financial advantages but stressed that Congress remains deeply rooted in public support. “This is a battle of ideas. We have not strayed from our ideology and will continue our struggle to protect Maharashtra from corruption,” he added.
Sapkal noted that the municipal election victories will energise the party ahead of the upcoming municipal corporation and zilla parishad elections, reaffirming Congress’ commitment to its ideological fight in the state.