The Chandigarh Mayor election has turned into a high-stakes contest with power hinging on just one vote.
Both the BJP and the AAP-Congress alliance currently command 18 councillors each.
If no councillor switches sides, the mayor will be decided through a draw of lots.
Political activity intensified soon after the election date announcement.
This election will mark the first time councillors vote by raising hands instead of ballot papers.
The new system removes the risk of cross-voting but increases visible political pressure.
After two AAP women councillors joined the BJP, AAP and Congress tightened internal coordination.
They restricted councillor movement to prevent further defections.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders continue outreach efforts among opposition councillors.
The party hopes dissatisfaction among mayoral aspirants will work in its favour.
This will be the final mayoral election of the current five-year municipal term.
Municipal elections are scheduled for December this year.
The new mayor’s tenure will remain under one year due to early imposition of the model code.
Chandigarh will get its new mayor on January 29.
The same day, councillors will also elect the senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor.
Dr Ramnik Bedi will serve again as the presiding officer.
Only authorised persons may enter the municipal premises.
Authorities will conduct uninterrupted videography of the entire election process.
