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| Voter roll revision nears completion, Panchayat, ULB polls on cards in J&K | | |  Sanjay Pandita
Early Times Report
Jammu, Sept 12: Following the completion of the exercise to revise electoral rolls, the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are now set to initiate the process of conducting Panchayat and Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections—an important step toward decentralizing power and restoring democratic governance at the grassroots level.
Sources within the Union Territory administration revealed that the Election Authority is in the final stages of preparing voter lists and arranging logistical details required to conduct the polls. A formal notification announcing the schedule for elections is expected to be issued later this month, marking a significant move to reinstate local self-governance after a prolonged absence of elected representatives.
The decision comes amid mounting pressure from political parties, community leaders, and civil society organizations who have been advocating for the revival of democratic institutions in rural and urban areas alike. These institutions have been without elected leadership for more than a year, generating concerns over governance gaps and the slow pace of development.
The tenure of both Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies, which were elected in 2018, expired in October and December 2023, respectively. Since then, administrative control at these levels has been managed by government-appointed officials, a situation that has raised questions about accountability and citizen participation in decision-making processes. Local residents, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions, have voiced frustration over the lack of representation and limited avenues to address grievances.
Developmental initiatives, community welfare programs, and infrastructure projects at the grassroots have reportedly suffered due to the absence of elected bodies. Public service delivery and grievance redressal mechanisms have weakened, leaving citizens with limited recourse to influence policy or raise local concerns.
Officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission confirmed that preparations for the twin elections are well underway. Delimitation of wards, rationalization of polling stations, and revision of electoral rolls are in advanced stages, with an emphasis on ensuring inclusivity and fairness in the process. The commission had earlier stated that the elections would only be feasible once the region’s security and administrative conditions were conducive to free and fair polling.
A senior official noted, “We are ensuring that all aspects—from voter identification to polling arrangements—are handled meticulously. The upcoming elections are not just procedural; they are essential for strengthening democratic participation and empowering local communities.”
Political observers believe that these elections could reshape local governance dynamics and strengthen public trust in the democratic process. However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing security concerns and ensuring wide participation across remote regions. |
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