Panchkula, Jan. 23 -- The Panchkula mayor's post has been officially declared an "unreserved seat", opening the field for a wide array of contenders.

This was decided following a draw of lots, conducted at the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies (ULB) office, Sector 4, to choose the reserved and open seats.

The mayoral post in the Ambala MC has been reserved for a Backward Classes-Block B (BC-B) woman candidate while the Sonepat mayoral post has also been left open for all candidates.

With the previous mayor and councillors completing their terms earlier this month, preparations will kick off for the next MC elections. Sources said the State Election Commissioner will convene meetings to finalise voter lists and logistical arrangements, ...