Counting of votes has begun across Punjab for the General Elections to Municipalities-2026, covering 102 civic bodies including Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils and Nagar Panchayats.The elections, held across 1,897 wards and 3,833 polling booths, saw a significant voter turnout of 63.94%, with over 22.38 lakh votes cast from more than 35 lakh registered voters.Nagar Panchayats recorded the highest turnout at 76.18%, followed by Municipal Councils at 65.06% and Municipal Corporations at 59.91%.

A total of 7,554 candidates are in the fray, while 80 candidates were elected unopposed in various bodies, with Aam Aadmi Party securing the majority of uncontested wins.The results are being closely watched as they are considered a key political test for the ruling AAP ahead of the next assembly elections in Punjab.

The polling process was not without tensions, as multiple incidents of clashes, allegations of booth capturing, and sporadic violence were reported from different districts during voting.

Political parties including AAP, Congress, BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal accused each other of misconduct at several locations, prompting police intervention in some areas.

In certain constituencies like Mohali, complaints were raised regarding alleged violations of ballot secrecy and demands for re-polling, further intensifying the controversy around the elections.The civic body polls are being seen as a major indicator of political mood in the state, especially in urban local governance.

With counting underway, all major parties are watching closely as early trends and final results will shape the narrative ahead of upcoming state-level elections.The outcome is expected to influence political strategies and alliances in Punjab's evolving political landscape.