Nanded: The political atmosphere in Nanded is heating up ahead of the Nanded Waghala City Municipal Corporation (NWCMC) elections for 2025–26, with 491 candidates in the fray for a total of 81 seats. Contests in most wards are expected to be triangular or quadrangular, offering voters multiple choices while posing significant strategic challenges for political parties and independent candidates.
Ruling parties, major opposition parties and several regional parties have entered the race, each working to ensure that the maximum number of their candidates secure victory. In several wards, multi-cornered contests are anticipated. Candidates have intensified campaigning by conducting door-to-door outreach, using social media platforms and organising corner meetings.
Candidates from recognised political parties as well as independents have released their election manifestos. Most of these focus on development, basic amenities, cleanliness, water supply, roads, education and health. Independent candidates, in particular, are communicating directly with voters on local issues.
Following the completion of the nomination filing process, campaigning has reached its peak. The administration has stated that it is prepared to conduct peaceful and transparent elections, with strict vigil being maintained to ensure implementation of the model code of conduct.
Given the prevailing political equations, the municipal corporation elections for 81 seats are expected to be highly competitive. The final outcome will depend on voters, whose decision will shape the future of the city, experts said.
