Urban local body members fear losing existing wards

Elected members of urban local bodies (ULBs) in Yadgir, Shahapur, Shorapur, and Gurmitkal are worried about losing their wards. This concern arises from the upcoming new ward-wise reservations set to take effect before the next elections. The current term for the City Municipal Councils (CMC) of Yadgir and Shahapur ends on October 29. Shorapur’s term will finish on October 31, while Gurmitkal’s will end on November 2. According to local laws, elections must occur before these terms expire. The Election Commission has instructed the Municipal Administration Department to issue a notification about the new ward reservations. This will help ensure fair elections. Yadgir and Shahapur CMCs each have 31 seats, while Gurmitkal TMC has 23 seats. In Yadgir CMC, the BJP holds 16 seats, Congress 12, JD(S) has 2, and there is one Independent member. In Shahapur CMC, Congress has 16 seats, BJP has 12, SDPI holds 2, and there is one Independent. Shorapur CMC has 16 BJP members and 15 from Congress. In Gurmitkal TMC, JD(S) has 8 members, Congress 12, BJP 2, and one Independent. Current members are closely watching the changes in reservations. Many are also considering contesting elections in different wards where they may have more support from voters.