Himachal: BJP concedes defeat; Jairam Thakur resigns

Jairam Thakur said he respects people's mandate

With the Congress set to cross the majority mark in the 68-member Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Chief Minister Jairam Thakur Thursday said he respects the mandate and handed over his resignation to the governor. Meanwhile, the BJP conceded defeat in Himachal Pradesh.

"I respect people's mandate," Thakur told reporters here.

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The Congress on Thursday was set to achieve a majority in Himachal Pradesh as it surged ahead of the BJP, winning 16 seats and leading in 23 others.

According to the latest results and trends, the ruling BJP had registered a win on 13 seats and was leading in as many others.

Three Independents have also emerged victorious.

Himachal Pradesh has not voted any incumbent government to power since 1985.