Amid the ongoing urban local body elections in Himachal Pradesh, the Jawalamukhi Municipal Council elections have taken a significant turn, with the Congress party announcing its candidates for all nine wards.
A major highlight came from Ward No. 2, where 32-year-old civil engineer Somesh Kaushik was elected unopposed after other candidates withdrew their nominations in his favor.
While addressing media persons at Ajudhya Niwas, local MLA Sanjay Rattan said,
“Congress has decided its candidates for all nine wards. From Ward No. 2, Somesh Kaushik has been elected unopposed after other candidates extended their support by withdrawing nominations. We congratulate him and the voters of Ward No. 2 for choosing young leadership.”
He further emphasized that the party has fielded entirely new candidates across all wards to promote fresh leadership.
“This time, we have given opportunity to all new faces. Our aim is to strengthen grassroots leadership and ensure balanced development across all wards,” he added.
Listing the candidates, he said Congress has nominated Som Kiran from Ward 1, Somesh Kaushik from Ward 2, Rita from Ward 3, Divya Deepti from Ward 4, Neeraj Sharma from Ward 5, Suman from Ward 6, Pawan Goswami from Ward 7, Sunil from Ward 8, and Rajni Handa from Ward 9.
Highlighting the development agenda, Rattan said that the government is working on a major beautification project worth around ₹200–300 crore for Jawalamukhi.
“A comprehensive master plan is being prepared for the town, including the beautification of the city and areas around the famous Jwala Ji Temple. Our focus is on improving sanitation, electricity, and drinking water supply,” he stated.
He also assured residents that efforts are underway to provide 24-hour water supply in the coming months.
Addressing concerns of residents in newly merged wards, he clarified that no new taxes will be imposed for the next five years.
“There is misinformation being spread. People in newly included areas will not face any new tax burden. Existing benefits will continue, and civic facilities will be improved,” he said.
Rattan appealed to voters to support development-oriented leadership and ignore misleading claims during the election campaign.
“Our goal is to make Jawalamukhi a model town with equal development in all nine wards. We are committed to providing better infrastructure and civic amenities for both residents and visiting pilgrims,” he added.