Telangana readies to issue panchayat poll notification
HYDERABAD: The stage is set for the Telangana government to issue the schedule and notification for panchayat elections. The State Election Commission is preparing to announce the schedule any moment for 12,760 gram panchayats and 1,13,534 wards across 545 mandals in 31 districts.
High Court order, cabinet decision to guide timeline
Officials said the commission will act in line with the High Court judgment expected on Tuesday and the cabinet’s decisions. The notification is likely on Wednesday or Thursday. The government has already granted permission for the polls, and the Panchayat Raj Department and the commission have started preparations.
District collectors issue reservation gazette
On Monday, district collectors issued a gazette notification on SC, ST, BC and women’s reservations for the upcoming polls, based on instructions from the Panchayat Raj Department. The selections were made within the 50% cap, using the report of the state’s Backward Classes Dedicated Commission as the reference.
The Panchayat Raj Department submitted the consolidated report to the Election Commission on Monday evening along with ward-wise voter lists.
High Court to hear petitions today
The High Court will hear petitions relating to the local body elections on Tuesday, after the hearing was deferred from Monday. The Panchayat Raj Department has already submitted a report to the Advocate General stating that the government is prepared to conduct the elections with the earlier reservation pattern if required.
The cabinet is expected to discuss the matter on Tuesday and finalise the poll dates. The Election Commission earlier submitted proposals for a three-phase election schedule, which the government examined.
Election Commission reviews preparedness
Meanwhile, the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Departments are scheduled to distribute interest-free loan cheques on Tuesday. Though this raised expectations of a notification on the same day, sources said the commission is likely to wait for the High Court order and cabinet decisions before issuing the final notification.
Rani Kumudini reviews arrangements
The State Election Commission held a review meeting on Monday. Chief Election Commissioner Rani Kumudini, secretary Makarand, election observers and expenditure observers attended.
Kumudini said observers hold a crucial role in ensuring smooth conduct of elections. She stressed strict adherence to guidelines and rules and called for firm action against violations.
