Panchayat Election 2024: Punjab’s sarpanch election breaks records with Rs 2 cr offered in bid

PTC News Desk: In the lead-up to the 2024 Panchayat elections, the political landscape in Punjab has reached a fever pitch, especially in the Dera Baba Nanak constituency of Gurdaspur district. The village of Hardorwal Kala has made headlines by becoming the first in Punjab to witness a staggering bid of Rs 2 crore for the Sarpanch position, setting a new record in the state.

Three Parties Compete for the Sarpanch Role

Information from local sources reveals that three political parties have laid claim to the Sarpanch position in Hardorwal village, initiating a bidding war among their candidates. The bidders included notable figures such as Atma Singh, son of Vasban Singh, Jaswinder Singh Bedi, son of Ajit Singh, and Nirvair Singh, son of Harjit Singh. Among these contenders, Atma Singh emerged as the frontrunner with a bid of Rs 2 crore.

Despite the intense competition, representatives from major parties like the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal did not participate in the bidding process, leaving the contest to the three contenders.

Bidding Process and Current Standings

The bidding process was announced at the village’s Gurdwara Sahib, emphasising that the highest bidder would secure the role of Sarpanch. As it stands, Atma Singh’s bid of Rs 2 crore is unmatched, while Jaswinder Singh Bedi submitted a bid of Rs 1 crore. The bidding was set to conclude today, allowing any last-minute contenders to place higher bids.

If no new bids are submitted by the deadline, Atma Singh’s bid will be finalised as the winning offer. BJP leader Vijay Soni has already praised Atma Singh for his record bid, asserting that the BJP remains the only party in Punjab committed to the welfare of its residents.

As the deadline looms, the political atmosphere remains charged, with all eyes on Hardorwal Kala to see if anyone will challenge Singh’s substantial bid or if this will mark a new chapter in local governance in Punjab.

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