Dehradun: The Kedarnath bypolls are heating up as BJP’s Asha Nautiyal takes an early lead, surpassing Congress’s Manoj Rawat by over 1,000 votes after the second round of counting. As of Saturday, November 23, 2024, Nautiyal, who is contesting following the unfortunate passing of BJP MLA Shaila Rani Rawat in July, has emerged as a strong contender in the race. Independent candidate Tribhuvan Singh is trailing in the third spot

Nautiyal, supported by the ruling party, is currently leading by 1,005 votes, marking a significant moment for the BJP in the ongoing election. Independent candidate Tribhuvan Singh is trailing behind in second place.

The bypoll became necessary after the death of Shaila Rani Rawat, and the election was held on November 20, 2024, to fill the vacant assembly seat. The vote counting began at 8 am today, with tight security measures in place at the Kedarnath counting centres, as the results continue to be closely monitored by political analysts and local residents alike.