Punjab civic polls: Two BJP candidates in same ward; one supporting the other

Goyal, however, is not campaigning for himself, but for his “childhood friend” Sra. The residents are not aware that he is contesting, and he said that he only wants Sra to win.

“I do not know why I was included in the list of candidates. I had filed my nomination as a covering candidate, but I was told by the election officials that my nomination would be rejected because I was also a proposer for Sra, which they told me is not permitted. Assuming that my candidature would be rejected, I did not withdraw it,” said Goyal.

Despite officially being Sra’s ‘rival’, Goyal is determined to help him win. “I have no intention of getting even a single vote. That’s why I’m not campaigning for myself but only for my friend,” he said, adding that even his own vote would go to Sra.

Sra, when contacted, said, “Goyal is only my covering candidate, and he is not contesting the elections.” Mohali BJP Vice-President Rajesh Verma said that Sra is the party’s candidate from the ward and even if Goyal is officially contesting, it would not make a difference since he is not campaigning.

Returning officer Navjot Kaur said that Goyal’s name was included since he did not withdraw his nomination.