Vav By-Election: A Battle for Political Strongholds

A by-election in Gujarat's Vav assembly seat saw a 70.55% voter turnout. The seat became vacant after Congress MLA Geniben Thakor joined the Lok Sabha. The main contenders were Congress' Gulabsinh Rajput and BJP's Swaroopji Thakor, with a surprise challenge from BJP rebel Mavji Patel.

The Vav assembly by-election in Gujarat's Banaskantha district concluded with a substantial 70.55% voter turnout, according to polling authorities. The by-election was necessitated by Congress MLA Geniben Thakor's resignation after her election to the Lok Sabha in June.

Voting took place at 321 polling stations using EVM and VVPAT machines, with 3.10 lakh registered voters. Key contenders included Congress' Gulabsinh Rajput, BJP's Swaroopji Thakor, and Mavji Patel, a BJP rebel who opted to run independently, turning the bypoll into a riveting three-cornered contest.

The constituency, long considered a Congress stronghold, features a diverse voter base, including the Thakor, Chaudhary, Dalit, Maldhari, and Brahmin communities. The results, slated for November 23, will determine if the region remains a bastion for Congress or shifts alliances.

(With inputs from agencies.)