A heated political battle in the Khanapur Municipality of Nirmal district concluded with the BJP-BRS alliance successfully securing control of the civic body. The 12-member municipal council had delivered a hung verdict, with BJP and BRS winning four seats each, Congress securing three seats, and one Independent councillor holding the balance of power.
To form a majority, seven votes were required for the election of the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. The BJP and BRS joined hands, fielding A. Maunika of BJP for Chairperson and Mohd. Shoaib of BRS for Vice-Chairperson, giving the alliance a combined strength of eight votes.
The election process witnessed intense drama after objections were raised during the proceedings, leading to heated arguments between rival political groups. The situation escalated into administrative confusion, resulting in the postponement of the election and triggering allegations that the process was being deliberately delayed.
The postponement sparked protests by BJP and BRS councillors and supporters, who staged demonstrations inside municipal offices and later intensified their agitation before district authorities. Police were deployed to maintain law and order amid rising tensions.
Following prolonged political uncertainty and public protests, the BJP-BRS alliance ultimately emerged victorious. With BRS support, BJP candidate A. Maunika was elected Chairperson, ending the deadlock and marking a significant political development in Khanapur Municipality.