Congress Candidate Backs Out of Sonipat Mayoral Poll

April 23, 2026

Sonipat, April 23: The Congress party has suffered a major setback just ahead of the mayoral elections in Sonipat. The party’s declared mayoral candidate, Kamal Diwan, has refused to contest the election. Internal factionalism within the party, disputes over the allocation of councilor tickets and lingering resentment over alleged sabotage during the previous by-election are believed to be the primary reasons behind this decision.

Just a day earlier, he had filed his nomination papers at the ADC’s office in the presence of Congress State President Rao Narendra, Rajya Sabha MP Deepender Hooda, and Sonipat MP Satpal Brahmachari.

Allegations of Sabotage in the Previous Election

According to sources, Kamal Diwan has not yet been able to come to terms with his defeat in the previous mayoral by-election. In that election, he suffered a crushing defeat by a wide margin of approximately 35,766 votes. Even at that time, Diwan had openly accused certain party councilors and leaders of engaging in sabotage. According to reports, he is currently upset over the decision to allocate tickets to those very same councilors.

Conflict Over Councilor Tickets Emerges as a Major Cause

It is reported that the primary bone of contention this time is the distribution of tickets for councilor seats. Diwan is displeased by discussions regarding the allocation of tickets to individuals considered close associates of former MLA Surender Pawar. He is opposing the candidature of individuals who have previously faced allegations of working against the party’s interests.

Phones Switched Off; Deliberations to Take Place in Ambala

According to sources, Kamal Diwan has currently switched off his mobile phones and is not in direct contact with anyone. Following discussions with his family, he has been summoned to Ambala, where a crucial meeting with senior party leaders is scheduled to take place. A final decision regarding whether or not he will contest the election is expected to be reached during this meeting.

A Major Challenge for the High Command

This situation has now evolved into a significant challenge for the Congress High Command. On one hand, they must persuade the candidate to contest; on the other, they must quell internal factionalism and unite the party organization. The meeting scheduled to be held in Ambala is being viewed as the decisive turning point in this entire unfolding saga.