Vote counting began on Friday for the high-stakes local body elections across Telangana, covering 116 municipalities and seven municipal corporations, with early trends indicating a clear lead for the Indian National Congress.

According to initial tallies, Congress has secured 511 seats, emerging as the single largest party in the civic polls, while the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has won 283 seats so far. Other parties, including the BJP and independents, are sharing the remaining seats as counting continues.

Polling for the urban local bodies was held on February 11, witnessing participation from over 52 lakh eligible voters. Nearly 13,000 candidates were in the fray, making the elections one of the largest municipal exercises in the state in recent years. Election officials said the counting process is progressing smoothly under tight security arrangements.

The municipalities and corporations that went to polls include key urban centres across northern, central, and southern Telangana, covering regions such as Warangal, Karimnagar, Khammam, Adilabad, Nizamabad, and Rangareddy districts. These elections are seen as a crucial test of grassroots strength for major political parties.

Political observers say the strong Congress performance reflects growing urban support following its return to power in the state, while the BRS appears to be holding ground in select pockets despite losing its earlier dominance. The results are expected to play a significant role in shaping political strategies ahead of future elections.

Officials from the State Election Commission said final results will be declared after the completion of counting in all wards and resolution of postal ballot tallies. Party leaders from across the spectrum are closely monitoring developments as margins tighten in several municipalities.