Panchayat Elections: Preparation Underway with New Reservations
Hyderabad.22.12.2024: The process for Panchayat Elections has officially begun, and preparations are in full swing to ensure smooth conduct under the new reservation system. With elections expected to take place in late January or February, officials are actively working to finalize logistics, including the printing of ballot papers, voter registration updates, and training election personnel.
Elections Under the New Reservation Policy
The upcoming Panchayat Elections are set to be conducted under a new reservation framework introduced by the Congress-led government. This shift follows a caste census initiated by the Revanth Reddy administration, delivering on a promise made during the assembly election campaign. Notably, candidates with three children, who were previously ineligible, will now be permitted to contest, offering fresh opportunities for many aspiring leaders.
Key Highlights of the Election Preparations
- Tender for Ballot Papers:
A tender for printing ballot papers will soon be issued. Over 50% of election materials, including essential documents for presiding and returning officers, have already reached the district. - Final Voter List Displayed:
The final draft voter list, with updates and corrections, was displayed across mandals earlier this month. The district has 3838 wards spread across 441 Gram Panchayats, with a total of 5,27,302 registered voters—comprising 2,62,558 men, 2,64,736 women, and eight other voters. - T-Poll Portal Integration:
To streamline the election process, the State Election Commission has introduced the Nirana app. By December 25, voter list details and polling station data must be uploaded to the T-Poll portal, facilitating efficient management and transparency.
Collector Appoints Special Officers
District Collector Vijayendra Boi has appointed special election officers for every department to oversee the Panchayat Elections. These officers are tasked with ensuring readiness across all sectors, from polling station arrangements to ballot paper distribution. Training sessions for election management are also planned.
Village Panchayats to Witness Smooth Transition
The current administration under special officers will transition to elected representatives following the elections. The government’s proactive steps aim to resolve ongoing village-level issues, ensuring democratic governance in the near future.
Readiness for Elections
According to officials, polling stations at the village level have already been finalized. “We are prepared to conduct elections anytime. As soon as we receive the tender notification for ballot paper printing, we will proceed without delay,” an official stated.
