Jaipur: The ruling BJP maintained its winning spree in Rajasthan by claiming majority in most of the municipal bodies on Thursday winning 65 seats. Of the 187 municipal bodies in the state, 129 went to the polls on Monday.
The verdict, however, was a major setback for Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, as BJP lost in her home turf. Of Jhalawar and Jhalrapatan municipality, Congress won in 27 seats, while Independents emerged victorious in 17 seats.
Congress leader Sachin Pilot, however, downplayed his party’s dismal show in the civic polls. “Congress comprehensively defeated the BJP in Vasundhara Raje’s strong hold,” claimed Pilot.
“There is less than one percent difference between the vote share of the BJP and the Congress,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his delight with BJP’s splendid show for the confidence reposed and thanked the people of Rajasthan.
“A big thank you to people of Rajasthan. Congrats to Rajasthan BJP workers & leaders on the commendable performance in the civic polls,” he tweeted.
The verdict of the Rajasthan civic polls would add to the morale of the BJP, which is eyeing to grab power in Bihar next.
(With inputs from ANI)