In a move set to revive the electoral fervour across the state, panchayat by-elections are expected next month to fill vacant seats in the three-tier local governance system. With nearly 5,000 gram panchayats having been left with empty posts, the State Election Commission is now preparing to hold the polls, with an aim to complete the process before the end of October.
Our correspondent reports that while the main panchayat elections were recently concluded in 12 districts (excluding Haridwar), a significant number of vacancies have emerged, creating a need for a new round of polls. The current drive is particularly focused on ensuring that all gram panchayats are fully functional, as the development work at the grassroots level has been affected by the lack of elected members.
According to a press statement from the State Election Commission, a total of 33,468 seats for gram panchayat members remain vacant across 4,792 villages. Additionally, 20 posts for village heads (Pradhan) are also lying empty. While there are no major issues at the higher levels of the panchayat system (Kshetra Panchayat and Zila Panchayat), the village level requires immediate attention. A panchayat needs at least two-thirds of its members in place to be formally constituted, a requirement that is currently unfulfilled in many villages.
Our correspondent adds that the need for a swift resolution became apparent due to the stalled development projects. The State Election Commission, in coordination with government officials, has been instructed to expedite the process to prevent any further delays. Preliminary work to conduct the by-elections had been initiated earlier, but it had to be put on hold due to a series of natural disasters and the inauspicious Pitru Paksha period. With those obstacles now behind them, all efforts are being directed towards ensuring a smooth and timely electoral process.
The commission has set a target to complete the by-elections before 15 October. This ambitious timeline underscores the urgency felt by the administration to get the village-level governance back on track. The upcoming elections will not only fill the vacant posts but also provide a new opportunity for local leaders to contribute to their communities’ progress. The by-elections are expected to re-energise the local political scene and bring new vigour to the rural development agenda. Our correspondent reports that local political parties and independent candidates have already begun their preparations, with campaigns set to intensify in the coming weeks.
The State Election Commission has also announced that all necessary arrangements, including the finalisation of voter lists and the deployment of polling staff, are in the final stages. A detailed notification outlining the election schedule is expected to be released shortly. The local administration and police have been briefed to ensure that the polls are conducted in a free and fair manner, with strict adherence to all electoral guidelines. Our correspondent adds that security measures will be particularly tight to prevent any untoward incidents, ensuring a peaceful polling day for all.
The successful completion of these by-elections will be a major step towards strengthening democratic institutions at the village level. It will empower the local populace and enable them to take charge of their own development. The government’s proactive approach in addressing the issue is a testament to its commitment to good governance and to ensuring that no community is left behind.
