Bajaj told Newsline that though he had heard that Akali and BJP councillors had tendered their resignations owing moral responsibility over the humiliating defeat of the party’s nominee from Patiala, he being the party president for Patiala urban had not received any such intimation.

“There is no need to resign. We should not run away, rather we should fight it out to win over the public confidence. By running away, we will exhibit cowardice. We must improve upon our mistakes and selflessly work for the town’s development in public interest,” Bajaj said.

Bajaj also backed Mayor Ajit Pal Singh Kohli, as sources say the resignations were aimed at ousting him. Sources add that SAD nominee Prem Singh Chandumajra, who was defeated by Preneet Kaur of Congress, was behind the “resignation drama” and wanted to install his own man on the post of Mayor.

Bajaj added that Congress gained by playing the “Manmohan card” and SAD workers should remain united to put up a fight against the Congress.

“It is time to work hard and participate in the development work initiated by the civic body.”

Meanwhile, Mayor Ajit Pal Singh Kohli said he had not received any resignation.

It may be recalled that as many as 13 municipal councillors of Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP had tendered their resignations to their respective party presidents on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, no fresh resignation was given by any other councillor today.