BJP misused government machinery in Birgaon civic polls: Congress

RAIPUR: Congress today accused the ruling BJP of "misusing" the government machinery in the recently held election to Chhattisgarh's Birgaon Municipal Corporation, where the BJP nominee won the mayor's post.

"Despite spending a huge sum of money and misusing the government machinery, the BJP managed to win only 13 wards out of 40 in Birgaon municipal election," Congress spokesperson Shailesh Nitin Trivedi told PTI.

BJP candidate Ambika Yadu won the mayoral post in the first ever election of Birgaon civic body, which went to polls on November 16, while the counting was held yesterday. The mayor is elected through direct election.

Putting a formidable show, Congress clinched 21 seats, followed by BJP 13, while Independent candidates won on the remaining six seats.

Congress workers had to stand firm against the BJP's government machinery and police force which were favouring the saffron party's candidates, Trivedi alleged.

He also congratulated party workers and leaders for putting up a "stellar performance".

"Apprehending defeat in the election, Chief Minister Raman Singh himself had to do a road-show for a municipal election. Besides, BJP senior ministers also had to campaign hard," he said.

Winning 21 wards clearly indicates that people are now with the Congress and are against the wrong policies of the BJP government, he added.