Congress Workers Clash With Police Ahead of Budget Meet; Gandhinagar Civic Body Passes ₹1,918.35 Crore Budget

Tension prevailed outside the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation office on Tuesday as Congress workers clashed with police ahead of the civic body’s budget meeting. The protest unfolded as the corporation convened to present and approve its budget for the financial year 2026–27.

Protest Turns Confrontational

According to officials, Congress members and supporters had gathered outside the civic body office to protest against alleged civic issues and financial priorities of the administration. The demonstrators attempted to march towards the premises, leading to a scuffle with police personnel deployed at the site.

Police said barricades were put up to prevent the protesters from entering the building. As the crowd pushed forward, minor clashes broke out. Several workers were briefly detained to maintain order. Authorities later confirmed that the situation was brought under control and no serious injuries were reported.

Budget Passed Unanimously

Meanwhile, inside the house, the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation proceeded with its scheduled meeting. Under the chairmanship of Mayor Miraben Patel, the civic body unanimously approved a ₹1,918.35 crore budget for the financial year 2026–27.

Officials stated that the budget focuses on infrastructure development, sanitation, water supply, road improvement, and urban services. Allocations have also been made for smart city initiatives and public welfare schemes.

Civic Priorities Outlined

The approved budget reportedly emphasizes:

• Upgrading drainage and sewage systems

• Strengthening waste management infrastructure

• Improving road connectivity and public amenities

• Enhancing digital governance and transparency

Mayor Patel said the budget aims to balance development with fiscal discipline while addressing the growing needs of Gandhinagar’s expanding population.

Political Reactions

Congress leaders criticized the civic administration’s financial planning, alleging inadequate attention to certain local concerns. They claimed their protest was intended to highlight gaps in public services and demand accountability.

Municipal officials, however, maintained that due process was followed in drafting and approving the budget.

The incident underscores heightened political activity around local governance issues, even as the civic body moves ahead with its development agenda for the upcoming financial year.