The first phase of Telangana's Gram Panchayat (GP) elections concluded triumphantly for the ruling Congress party, securing a decisive majority of sarpanch positions amid high voter enthusiasm. Polling across 30 districts for over 3,800 GPs recorded an impressive turnout of 84.28%, with 45.15 lakh voters participating in this crucial grassroots democratic exercise. As anticipated, Congress emerged as the frontrunner, clinching the lion's share of victories, followed closely by the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). Independents also made a strong showing, underscoring the vibrancy of local leadership in rural Telangana.

According to the latest official results compiled from the State Election Commission, Congress won 1,640 GPs, demonstrating robust organizational strength and public endorsement of its welfare schemes. BRS, the main opposition, secured 792 GPs, retaining influence in its traditional strongholds. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) garnered 139 seats, while Independents and other smaller parties/alliances claimed 365 victories, highlighting the role of non-partisan candidates in diverse constituencies.

District-wise breakdowns reveal Congress's dominance in key areas. In Vikarabad, the party swept 107 GPs, ahead of BRS's 38. Khammam saw Congress bag 100 seats against BRS's 32, while Nizamabad and Nagarkurnool recorded 71 and 69 wins respectively for Congress. Medak (91), Nalgonda (70), and Suryapet (69) further bolstered the tally. BRS performed competitively in Siddipet (55 GPs) and Mahabubnagar (48), often edging out rivals in close contests. BJP notched notable gains in Nirmal (14) and Karimnagar (14), signaling urban-rural outreach. Independents shone in Nirmal (37) and Adilabad (39), with standout wins like Tamma Balraju in Bhadradri Kothagudem and Hari Prasad in Sangareddy, reflecting community-driven choices.

Highlights included unanimous elections in 12 GPs in Gajwel and lucky draws resolving ties, such as in Medak's Tekmal (BRS's Pochaiah) and Yadadri's Rajapet (BRS's Indla Rajayya). Upsets featured Congress rebels like Islavath Sujatha in Mahabubabad and Left party victories in Bhadradri Kothagudem. Family legacies persisted, with mother-daughter duos in Jagtial.

This phase, covering contested and uncontested polls, sets a positive tone for subsequent rounds. Congress leaders hailed the results as a "mandate for progress," while BRS vowed a spirited comeback.