The All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) has expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in conducting panchayat elections in the Union Territory. The organization has called upon the Jammu and Kashmir government to hold the elections within the next 90 days, warning of potential agitation if their demand is not met.
Background
The term of the previous panchayats in Jammu and Kashmir expired on January 9, 2024. In response, the government appointed block development officers as administrators for the panchayats. However, over a year has passed, and the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) remain defunct, with no clear indication from the government regarding the scheduling of elections.
AJKPC’s Stance
Anil Sharma, the state president of AJKPC, emphasized the critical role of panchayats in strengthening grassroots democracy and ensuring effective governance. He stated, “For over a year now, the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) have been defunct, and there seems to be no sincere effort by the government to hold these elections.”
Government’s Response
In November 2024, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured the public that elections for panchayats and urban local bodies would be conducted soon. However, as of January 2025, no official schedule has been announced, leading to growing frustration among local leaders and residents.
Implications
The delay in conducting panchayat elections has significant implications for local governance and development. Panchayats play a crucial role in addressing community issues, implementing government schemes, and fostering democratic participation at the grassroots level. The absence of elected representatives has led to a governance vacuum, affecting the delivery of essential services to the public.
Conclusion
The AJKPC’s demand for the immediate conduct of panchayat elections underscores the urgent need for democratic processes to be restored at the grassroots level in Jammu and Kashmir. The government must prioritize the scheduling and execution of these elections to ensure effective local governance and uphold democratic values.
Source: Web Team, C6N
