As local body elections inch closer, aspiring candidates across Nagpur have quietly kicked off their pre-poll outreach — wrapped in the guise of “service” and “festive goodwill.”
With Zilla Parishad, Municipal Council and NMC elections expected soon, the political atmosphere has begun to stir. Taking advantage of the Diwali season, many hopefuls have launched “social service” and “spiritual” initiatives to connect with voters. From greeting cards and social media messages to free pilgrimage trips for senior citizens, the effort to win hearts before votes has clearly begun.
Large posters wishing citizens a “Happy Diwali” have started appearing across neighbourhoods, featuring smiling faces of would-be candidates. Meanwhile, “Tirth Darshan buses” — carrying senior citizens to religious sites — have begun rolling out, giving aspirants a chance for direct contact with voters in the name of devotion.
Festival-related events like Diwali Milan, rangoli contests, and lantern decorations are being organised almost daily, with local leaders leaving no opportunity unused. However, this competition for visibility is also burning deep holes in the pockets of newcomers, even before nominations are announced.
The change to four-member wards in the NMC has also drawn public frustration, as residents struggle to figure out “who is responsible” when civic issues arise.
While candidates push their “service” drives, aware citizens are watching closely. Many are now questioning why these sudden religious tours, festive gifts, and welfare camps appear only when elections are around the corner.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com