Voters in Chatra Nagar Parishad handa decisive mandate to Ataur Rahman; peaceful counting, tight security and a strong turnout mark the election
CHATRA – In a result that many residents described as historic, Chatra Nagar Parishad has elected a Muslim chairman after a gap of 74 years. Ataur Rahman won the civic body election with a clear margin, bringing minority representation back to the top post for the first time since 1952.
According to official figures, Ataur Rahman secured 6,111 votes, defeating his nearest rival, Aman Kumar, by 1,492 votes. Aman Kumar polled 4,619 votes, while Rajesh Kumar came third with 3,844 votes. The remaining candidates failed to retain their deposits.
A total of 22 candidates were in the fray for the chairman’s post. Out of nearly 36,000 registered voters in the town, 24,978 cast their votes.
The last time a Muslim candidate headed the civic body was in 1952, when Mohammad Musha was elected chairman of the then Chatra Municipality. He served for around 12 years before resigning. Since then, no Muslim has held the position until now.
Speaking after his victory, Ataur Rahman thanked the people of Chatra. “I am your son and your brother. I will always stand with you,” he said. “I will work for the overall development of the town.”
His supporters said the result reflected trust beyond community lines. A resident said, “People have voted for work and honesty. This is a proud moment for us.”
For many in the Muslim community, the win holds emotional value. One elderly resident said, “After so many years, we feel represented again. This shows that democracy gives space to everyone.”
Counting of votes was held on Friday morning at the Chatra College counting centre. From early hours, there was visible excitement among supporters of various candidates.
Security arrangements were tight. Magistrates and security forces were deployed at sensitive locations across the town to prevent any disturbance. Officials confirmed that the counting process was completed peacefully.
In the first round of counting, Aman Kumar was leading. However, in the second and third rounds, Ataur Rahman gained a decisive lead and maintained it till the final result.
District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner Kirtishree thanked officials, staff and security personnel for conducting the counting smoothly. “The entire process was completed peacefully and successfully,” she said.
The voter turnout was seen as significant for a municipal election. Out of nearly 36,000 voters, almost 25,000 participated. Political observers said this level of participation indicates strong public interest in local governance.
A young voter said, “We wanted change and development. We hope the new chairman will focus on roads, drainage and basic facilities.”
Ataur Rahman, addressing supporters, repeated his commitment to development. “This victory belongs to the people of Chatra. I will work without discrimination and focus on the town’s needs,” he said.
The election result is being viewed as an important moment in Chatra’s civic history. After more than seven decades, the return of a Muslim chairman is being seen by many as a sign of inclusive local politics.
Community leaders have urged the new chairman to prioritise unity. “The responsibility is big. He must represent every citizen,” said a senior social worker.
As celebrations continue among his supporters, residents across communities are now looking towards the new municipal leadership with expectations of better civic services and fair governance.
For many in Chatra, this election is not just about numbers. It is about representation, trust and the belief that public office can reflect the diversity of the people it serves.
