Four Himachal Cities to Elect Mayors and Deputy Mayors Today; Key Contests in Solan, Dharamshala and Mandi

June 29, 2026

Shimla: The municipal corporations of Solan, Palampur, Mandi and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh are set to elect their mayors and deputy mayors today, marking a key stage in the formation of urban local governance bodies across the state.

While the Congress is expected to secure the mayoral post in Palampur, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is projected to dominate the remaining three corporations Solan, Mandi and Dharamshala.

Political Equations in Key Cities

In Mandi, consensus within the BJP is reported to be forming around Suman Thakur, a three-time councillor and close associate of former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur. She has been actively seeking support from party leadership since her election.

In Dharamshala, Parveen Kumar and Harsh Oberoi are among the frontrunners for the mayoral post, with internal discussions underway to finalise the candidate.

In Palampur, three names Ritesh Thakur, Radha Sood, and Ranjit Kaur are being considered, all of whom are said to be close to the local party leadership.

In Solan, Abhishek Thakur, a councillor considered close to the state BJP leadership, is emerging as the frontrunner for the mayoral post. For the deputy mayor position, Sushma, a four-time councillor, is also in contention.

Uncertainty in Solan Civic Body

The Solan Municipal Corporation is witnessing uncertainty ahead of the election process due to allegations of illegal encroachment against two BJP councillors. The matter is currently under review by the divisional administration following a preliminary inquiry.

If any adverse decision is taken, the BJP’s strength in Solan could reduce, making the electoral process more competitive. There is also speculation that the election process in Solan may face delays or possible boycott by opposition councillors.

Mayoral Term and Election Process

All four municipal corporations have an unreserved mayoral post, and this time the elected mayors and deputy mayors will serve a five-year term, unlike the previous term structure of two and a half years.

Voting for municipal bodies was held on May 17, with results declared on May 31. After nearly a month, the swearing-in of councillors is scheduled for today, followed by the election of mayors and deputy mayors in the respective corporations.